Transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily M member 8 (TRPM8) receptor (TRPM8)

Transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily M member 8 (TRPM8) is a non-selective, calcium-permeable cation channel that serves as the primary molecular sensor for environmental cold (8-28°C) and cooling agents such as menthol (UniProt Q7Z2W7). It is highly expressed in a subset of primary afferent neurons in the dorsal root and trigeminal ganglia, where it mediates the perception of cool temperatures and cold-induced analgesia (PubMed: 11893340). Beyond sensory neurons, TRPM8 is found in the prostate, bladder, and vascular smooth muscle, suggesting roles in cell proliferation and vascular tone. In oncology, TRPM8 is a well-established marker for prostate cancer, with expression levels correlating with tumor progression (PubMed: 11259610). Pharmacologically, TRPM8 is targeted for the treatment of chronic pain, migraine, and dry eye disease, with camphor acting as a known inhibitor of the channel, contrasting with its activating effects on other TRP channels like TRPV1 (PubMed: 17504904). The channel's involvement in thermoregulation makes it a sensitive target, as modulation can lead to significant changes in core body temperature.

Other names

Cold and menthol receptor 1CMR1TRPP8Lyr

Modulation of the channel's gating state to control the flow of sodium and calcium ions, thereby influencing neuronal excitability and intracellular signaling.