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Transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) channels in diabetes and associated complications

Yi Wu1, Shengming Chen2, Xiaolu Xia2

  • 1Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomedicine, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, China.

Channels (Austin, Tex.)
|May 11, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Transient Receptor Potential Canonical (TRPC) channels are crucial for pancreatic beta cell function and insulin secretion. This review explores their roles in type 2 diabetes mellitus and its complications, highlighting therapeutic potential.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Endocrinology
  • Physiology

Background:

  • Transient Receptor Potential Canonical (TRPC) channels are expressed in various tissues, including pancreatic beta cells.
  • TRPC channels are increasingly recognized for their roles in regulating insulin secretion.
  • Dysregulation of TRPC channels is linked to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its complications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive review of TRPC channel distribution and function in the context of diabetes.
  • To elucidate the specific roles of TRPC subtypes in insulin secretion, insulin resistance, and diabetic complications.
  • To address controversies regarding TRPC expression patterns and physiological significance.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of current research on TRPC channels.
  • Analysis of studies investigating TRPC channel function in pancreatic beta cells.
  • Examination of evidence linking TRPC channels to T2DM pathogenesis and complications.

Main Results:

  • TRPC channels are vital for normal insulin secretion.
  • Altered TRPC channel activity contributes to insulin resistance and T2DM development.
  • Specific TRPC subtypes show differential involvement in diabetic complications.

Conclusions:

  • TRPC channels represent promising therapeutic targets for T2DM and its complications.
  • Further research is needed to clarify the precise roles and regulation of individual TRPC subtypes in diabetes.
  • Understanding TRPC channel function is critical for developing novel diabetes treatments.
Keywords:
TRPC channelsdiabetesdiabetic complicationsinsulin resistanceinsulin secretion

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