Target: |
TRPM4 is a calcium-activated non selective (CAN) cation channel that mediates membrane depolarization. While it is activated by increase in intracellular Ca2+, it is impermeable to it. TRPM4 mediates transport of monovalent cations (Na+ > K+ > Cs+ > Li+), leading to depolarize the membrane. It thereby plays a central role in cadiomyocytes, neurons from entorhinal cortex, dorsal root and vomeronasal neurons, endocrine pancreas cells, kidney epithelial cells, cochlea hair cells etc. Participates in T-cell activation by modulating Ca2+ oscillations after T lymphocyte activation, which is required for NFAT-dependent IL2 production. TRPM4 is involved in myogenic constriction of cerebral arteries. It controls insulin secretion in pancreatic beta-cells. TRPM4 may also be involved in pacemaking or could cause irregular electrical activity under conditions of Ca2+ overload. |