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Updated: Jul 19, 2025

Real-time In Vitro Monitoring of Odorant Receptor Activation by an Odorant in the Vapor Phase
Published on: April 23, 2019
Inhaled Volatile Molecules-Responsive TRP Channels as Non-Olfactory Receptors
Hyungsup Kim1, Minwoo Kim2, Yongwoo Jang2,3
1Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea.
Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels detect inhaled volatile molecules, influencing cellular signaling and physiological responses. This review explores TRP channel roles in sensing diverse compounds, impacting health and disease.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Molecular Biology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Odorant molecules are typically detected by olfactory receptors on olfactory neurons.
- Inhaled volatile molecules can trigger pathophysiological changes by activating Ca2+-permeable transient receptor potential (TRP) channels in peripheral tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of TRP channels involved in sensing inhaled volatile molecules.
- To elucidate the biological mechanisms of volatile molecule detection via TRP channels.
- To highlight the implications of TRP channel function in human health and disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on TRP channels and volatile molecule sensing.
- Analysis of cellular signaling pathways mediated by TRP channels.
- Synthesis of information on TRP channel involvement with diverse volatile compounds.
Main Results:
- TRP channels are crucial for detecting a wide range of inhaled volatile molecules, including hazardous substances, anesthetics, and natural compounds.
- Activation of TRP channels by these molecules initiates cellular signaling cascades.
- The review consolidates current knowledge on TRP channel-mediated responses to inhaled volatiles.
Conclusions:
- TRP channels play a significant role in the biological response to inhaled volatile molecules.
- Understanding TRP channel function offers insights into health and disease related to environmental exposures.
- Further research into TRP channels can inform therapeutic strategies for conditions linked to volatile molecule exposure.
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