TRPA1

TRPA1 is a calcium-permeable ion channel found chiefly on sensory neurons. Reactive chemicals and environmental irritants activate it, producing pain, itch, and inflammatory signals.

Transient receptor potential channel: A family of ion channels that convert physical or chemical stimuli into cellular signals. TRPA1 belongs to this channel family, whose members sense diverse environmental and bodily cues.
Allyl isothiocyanate: The pungent compound in mustard and wasabi that activates sensory irritant pathways. It is a classic TRPA1 activator and helps explain the sharp burn of mustard and wasabi.
Ion channel: A membrane protein that permits selected ions to cross a cell membrane. TRPA1 changes sensory-cell activity by opening a route for ions across the membrane.
Electrophile: A chemical species that accepts an electron pair to form a bond. Electrophiles activate TRPA1 through covalent reactions, but this mechanism cannot explain every reported stimulus.
Covalent modification: A chemical reaction that forms a lasting shared-electron bond between molecules. Many electrophilic irritants activate TRPA1 by covalently modifying reactive parts of the channel.
Cinnamaldehyde: An aromatic aldehyde that gives cinnamon its characteristic smell and taste. This electrophilic cinnamon compound activates TRPA1 and can provoke oral irritation.
Membrane potential: The voltage difference across a cell membrane, created by unequal ion distributions. TRPA1-mediated ion flow shifts membrane voltage and can trigger neuronal firing.
Oxidative stress: Cellular damage or signaling caused by an imbalance between oxidants and protective systems. Oxidants can activate TRPA1, raising questions about how the channel detects tissue stress in disease.
Calcium signaling: Cellular communication in which changes in calcium concentration regulate cell activity. Calcium entering through TRPA1 both signals sensory neurons and can further sensitize the channel.
Acrolein: A highly reactive aldehyde found in smoke and generated by combustion and some metabolic processes. Acrolein activates TRPA1, linking smoke exposure to sensory irritation and airway responses.

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