Abstract:
All seven canonical transient potential receptor (TRPC1-7) channel members are expressed in mammalian airway smooth muscle cells (ASMCs). Among this family, TRPC3 channel plays an important role in the control of the resting [Ca2+]i and agonist-induced increase in [Ca2+]i. This channel is significantly upregulated in molecular expression and functional activity in airway diseases. The upregulated channel significantly augments the resting [Ca2+]i and agonist-induced increase in [Ca2+]i, thereby exerting a direct and essential effect in airway hyperresponsiveness. The increased TRPC3 channel-mediated Ca2+ signaling also results in the transcription factor nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation via protein kinase C-α (PKCα)-dependent inhibitor of NFκB-α (IκBα) and calcineurin-dependent IκBβ signaling pathways, which upregulates cyclin-D1 expression and causes cell proliferation, leading to airway remodeling. TRPC3 channel may further interact with intracellular release Ca2+ channels, Orai channels and Ca2+-sensing stromal interaction molecules, mediating important cellular responses in ASMCs and the development of airway diseases.