TRPV1 Channels in Immune Cells and Hematological Malignancies

Transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 (TRPV1) is a member of the TRP family of channels that are responsible for nociceptive, thermal, and mechanical sensations. Originally associated exclusively with sensory neurons, TRPV1 is now known to be present in almost all organs, including cells of the immune system, where TRPV1 has been shown to play a pivotal role in inflammation and immunity. Monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells express TRPV1, with both mouse and human studies suggesting that TRPV1 activation protects against endotoxin-induced inflammation. In contrast, TRPV1 (and other TRP channels) appears to be required for T-cell receptor activation by mitogens. Additionally, studies in cell lines derived from hematological and other malignancies suggest altered expression/function of TRPV1 might serve as a target for novel cytotoxic therapies.