Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 14, 2026
12:09
Yeast Luminometric and Xenopus Oocyte Electrophysiological Examinations of the Molecular Mechanosensitivity of TRPV4
Published on: December 31, 2013
TRPV channels mediate temperature-sensing in human corneal endothelial cells
Stefan Mergler1, Monika Valtink, Vivien Jane Coulson-Thomas
1Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Clinic, Department of Ophthalmology, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany. stefan.mergler@charite.de
Experimental Eye Research
|March 27, 2010
Summary
Temperature-sensitive TRPV channels are functionally expressed in human corneal endothelial cells. This discovery reveals their role in maintaining corneal function under varying temperatures.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Cell Physiology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Corneal transparency and physiology depend on endothelial cell function.
- The role of temperature-sensitive ion channels in corneal endothelial cells is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the expression and function of temperature-sensitive Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) vanilloid (V) channels (TRPV1-3) in human corneal endothelial cells (HCEC).
Main Methods:
- Gene expression analysis using RT-PCR.
- Protein expression confirmation via immunostaining.
- Functional assays including capsaicin-induced calcium transients and temperature-shift experiments.
- High-throughput patch-clamp electrophysiology.
- Pharmacological characterization using agonists and antagonists.
Main Results:
- TRPV1, TRPV2, and TRPV3 gene expression was detected in HCEC.
- TRPV1 protein was confirmed in situ in corneal endothelium.
- Capsaicin and heat (25°C to >40°C) induced calcium influxes, blocked by TRPV1 antagonist capsazepine or extracellular calcium removal.
- Heating also increased currents sensitive to TRP channel blockers lanthanum chloride and ruthenium-red.
- 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB) application indicated TRPV1-3 activity.
Conclusions:
- Temperature-sensitive TRPV channels (TRPV1-3) are functionally expressed in human corneal endothelial cells.
- Modulation of TRPV channel activity by temperature plays a role in maintaining corneal endothelial function under different ambient conditions.
Related Concept Videos
01:43Thermosensation
Peripheral thermosensation is the perception of external temperature. A change in temperature (on the surface of the skin and other tissues) is detected by a family of temperature-sensitive ion channels called Transient Receptor Potential, or TRP, receptors. These receptors are located on free nerve endings. Those detecting cold temperatures are closer to the surface of the skin than the nerve endings detecting warmth. These thermoTRP channels, while temperature selective, have relatively...
01:12Mechanically-gated Ion Channels
Mechanically-gated ion channels are proteins found in eukaryotic and prokaryotic cell membranes that open in response to mechanical stress. Tension, compression, swelling, and shear stress can alter the conformation of the protein, opening a transmembrane channel that allows the passage of ions for signal transmission. In eukaryotes, mechanically-gated channels are distributed in several regions like the neurons, lungs, skin, bladder, and heart, where they play critical roles in numerous...
01:12Mechanically-gated Ion Channels
Mechanically-gated ion channels are proteins found in eukaryotic and prokaryotic cell membranes that open in response to mechanical stress. Tension, compression, swelling, and shear stress can alter the conformation of the protein, opening a transmembrane channel that allows the passage of ions for signal transmission. In eukaryotes, mechanically-gated channels are distributed in several regions like the neurons, lungs, skin, bladder, and heart, where they play critical roles in numerous...
01:14Assessing Body Temperature - Tympanic membrane
Assessing tympanic membrane temperature involves using a tympanic membrane thermometer (TMT). Here is a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Begin by practicing good hand hygiene to prevent the transmission of microorganisms.
Step 2: Turn on the thermometer and wait until the ready sign appears on the screen to ensure accurate measurement.
Step 3: Slide the probe cover in place to prevent cross-contamination.
Step 4: Instruct the patient to tilt their head to the side for comfort and check for cerumen...
Step 1: Begin by practicing good hand hygiene to prevent the transmission of microorganisms.
Step 2: Turn on the thermometer and wait until the ready sign appears on the screen to ensure accurate measurement.
Step 3: Slide the probe cover in place to prevent cross-contamination.
Step 4: Instruct the patient to tilt their head to the side for comfort and check for cerumen...
01:26Thermoregulation
The human body has a sophisticated thermoregulation system that employs negative feedback mechanisms to maintain an optimal core temperature. When the core temperature drops, peripheral and central thermoreceptors send signals to the hypothalamus, activating the heat-promoting center. This center triggers several responses aimed at increasing the core temperature. First, vasoconstriction reduces the flow of warm blood from internal organs to the skin so that the heat is not lost from the skin,...
01:19Assessing Body Temperature - Temporal Artery
Here is a stepwise guide to assessing the body temperature at the temporal artery using a temporal artery thermometer
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene and don a fresh pair of gloves to prevent cross-infection and ensure patient safety.
Step 2: Explain the procedure to the patient to establish trust. Clear communication establishes trust with the patient, ensures they understand what to expect, promotes cooperation, and enhances comfort during the procedure.
Step 3: Assess the patient's forehead...
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene and don a fresh pair of gloves to prevent cross-infection and ensure patient safety.
Step 2: Explain the procedure to the patient to establish trust. Clear communication establishes trust with the patient, ensures they understand what to expect, promotes cooperation, and enhances comfort during the procedure.
Step 3: Assess the patient's forehead...