Transient Receptor Potential A1 Is a Sensory Receptor for Multiple Products of Oxidative Stress

Transient receptor potential A1 (TRPA1) is expressed in a subset of nociceptive sensory neurons where it acts as a sensor for environmental irritants, including acrolein, and some pungent plant ingredients such as allyl isothiocyanate and cinnamaldehyde. These exogenous compounds activate TRPA1 by covalent modification of cysteine residues. We have used electrophysiological methods and measurements of intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) to show that TRPA1 is activated by several classes of endogenous thiol-reactive molecules. TRPA1 was activated by hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2); EC(50), 230 microM), by endogenously occurring alkenyl aldehydes (EC(50): 4-hydroxynonenal 19.9 microM, 4-oxo-nonenal 1.9…

• MR
  Medical Research Council