## TRPA1 Protein is a protein. This page describes its structure, normal nervous system function, role in neurodegenerative disease, and potential as a therapeutic target.
TRPA1 (Transient Receptor Potential Ankyrin 1) is a calcium-permeable non-selective cation channel characterized by 16-18 ankyrin repeat domains in its N-terminus, making it the most ankyrin-rich TRP channel[1]. The channel forms tetramers with six transmembrane domains per subunit.
Key structural features:
TRPA1 functions as an** oxidative stress sensor** and is activated by[2][3]:
In the nervous system:
Physiological roles:
TRPA1 dysregulation contributes to neurodegenerative processes[4][5]:
TRPA1 is a target for drug development[6]:
Nilius B, Owsianik G. The transient receptor potential family of ion channels. Genes & Diseases. 2014. ↩︎
Venkatachalam K, Montell C. TRP channels. Annual Review of Biochemistry. 2007. ↩︎
Jordt et al. Mustard oils and cannabinoids excite sensory nerve fibres through the TRP channel ANKTM1. Nature. 2004. ↩︎
Liu et al. TRPA1 mediates oxidative stress-induced neuronal damage in Alzheimer's disease. Free Radical Biology and Medicine. 2020. ↩︎
Staats et al. TRPA1: a new target for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 2020. ↩︎
Nilius et al. TRPA1: from the cytosol to the membrane. Pharmacological Reviews. 2014. ↩︎