TRP channels as critical pathways in temperature-induced asthma

Epidemiological studies have consistently demonstrated that extreme temperatures and abrupt temperature changes increase the incidence and severity of asthma. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects remain largely unclear. Molecular biology research has revealed that transient receptor potential (TRP) channels play a critical role in asthma progression. Current research mainly centers on TRPV1, TRPA1, and TRPV4, while other subtypes remain understudied. Most TRP channels exhibit increased expression in the respiratory system upon stimulation, which can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Notably, sustained abnormal temperatures mainly regulate the protein expression of TRPA1, TRPV1, and TRPM8, which possess different activation temperature ranges. In turn, TRP expression changes affect thermal sensing and thermoregulation, revealing their bidirectional interaction. Reviewing PubMed and Web of Science studies, we suggest extreme temperatures promote asthma development by regulating TRP channel expression. This view reveals the mechanism connecting ambient temperature and asthma, shedding light on novel therapeutic targets and prevention approaches.