The role of TRPV4 channels in ocular function and pathologies

• Published in: Experimental eye research 2020-12, Vol.201, p.108257-108257, Article 108257
• Main Authors: Guarino, Brianna D., Paruchuri, Sailaja, Thodeti, Charles K.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Angiogenesis; Animals; Calcium channel; Cell Membrane - metabolism; Ciliary Body - metabolism; Cornea; Diabetic retinopathy; Glaucoma; Humans; Lens; Lens, Crystalline - metabolism; Osmolarity; Osmotic Pressure; Retina; Retina - metabolism; Signal Transduction; TRPV Cation Channels - metabolism; TRPV4
• ISSN: 0014-4835; 1096-0007
• DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2020.108257

Transient potential receptor vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) is an ion channel responsible for sensing osmotic and mechanical signals, which in turn regulates calcium signaling across cell membranes. TRPV4 is widely expressed throughout the body, and plays an important role in normal physiological function, as well as different pathologies, however, its role in the eye is not well known. In the eye, TRPV4 is expressed in various tissues, such as the retina, corneal epithelium, ciliary body, and the lens. In this review, we provide an overview on TRPV4 structure, activation, mutations, and summarize the current knowledge of TRPV4 function and signaling mechanisms in various locations throughout the eye, as well as its role in ocular diseases, such as glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. Based on the available data, we highlight the therapeutic potential of TRPV4 as well as the shortcomings of current research. Finally, we provide future perspectives on the implications of targeting TRPV4 to treat various ocular pathologies. •TRPV4 is expressed in various cells and tissues of the eye.•TRPV4 is mechanosensor and regulates ion and water homeostasis in the eye.•TRPV4 modulates intraocular pressure and involved in glaucoma.•TRPV4 is implicated in ischemia-induced neovascularization and diabetic retinopathy.