What is TRPM3

Transient receptor potential cation channel, subfamily M, member 3, also known as TRPM3, is a human gene.

The product of this gene belongs to the family of transient receptor potential (TRP) channels. TRP channels are cation-selective channels important for cellular calcium signaling and homeostasis. The protein encoded by this gene mediates calcium entry, and this entry is potentiated by calcium store depletion. Alternatively spliced transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been identified.[1] TRPM3 was shown to be activated by the neurosteroid pregnenolone sulphate in hepatocytes. The activation causes calcium influx and subsequent insulin release, therefore it is suggested that TRPM3 modulates glucose homeostasis.

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Permeability and activation of TRPM

The relative permeability of calcium and magnesium varies widely among TRPM channels. TRPM4/5 are impermeable to calcium. TRPM3/6/7 are highly permeable to both calcium and magnesium. The mechanism of activation also varies greatly among TRPM channels. TRPM2 is activated by ADP-ribose Adenosine 5'-diphosphoribose and functions as a sensor of redox status in cells.[3] TRPM4/5 are activated by intracellular calcium. TRPM8, conversely, can be activated by low temperatures, menthol, eucalyptol and icilin.

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