TRP ion channels and approaches in COVID-19

ABSTRACT

Living systems have hundreds of ion channels on their surfaces. The TRP protein family defined in Drosophila is one of the channels providing ion passage and is present in living systems from simple organisms to complex. TRP channels have various roles in sensory systems and are located in almost all cells. TRP cation channels of mammals consist of seven subfamilies and each of them has their own structure, location etc. (Clapham, 2003). Since they play a role in sensory transmission, sciencists think that they could be potential targets for relieving the symptoms of various diseases (Miller, 2006). COVID-19 disease caused by the SARS-Cov-2 virus occurs with symptoms such as headache, muscle pain, respiratory and digestive problems, and loss of taste and smell. TRP channels have been targeted in some approaches to reduce these symptoms. In some studies that blocked TRP channels, the symptoms were observed to disappear or to decrease significantly (Fernandes et al., 2012). The virus requires angiotensin converting enzyme 2 and transmembrane protease serine 2 proteins to enter host cells. These processes are mediated by endocytosis and by Ca+ flow. In this context, it has been observed that the blocking of TRP channels hinders the entry of the virus into the host. The aim of this review is to examine the severe symptoms, the potential roles of TRP ion channels in the spread and progression processes of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a worldwide crisis, as well as their therapeutic approaches.