Trafficking mechanisms and regulation of TRPC channels

• Ca2+-permeable TRPC channels contribute to various cellular functions.
• TRPC channel trafficking is a key determinant of their plasma membrane function.
• This review discusses the mechanisms and pathways regulating TRPC trafficking.
• The topics discussed are endocytic, recycling, as well as exocytic mechanisms.

TRPC channels are Ca2+-permeable cation channels which are regulated downstream from receptor-coupled PIP2 hydrolysis. These channels contribute to a wide variety of cellular functions. Loss or gain of channel function has been associated with dysfunction and aberrant physiology. TRPC channel functions are influenced by their physical and functional interactions with numerous proteins that determine their regulation, scaffolding, trafficking, as well as their effects on the downstream cellular processes. Such interactions also compartmentalize the Ca2+ signals arising from TRPC channels. A large number of studies demonstrate that trafficking is a critical mode by which plasma membrane localization and surface expression of TRPC channels are regulated. This review will provide an overview of intracellular trafficking pathways as well as discuss the current state of knowledge regarding the mechanisms and components involved in trafficking of the seven members of the TRPC family (TRPC1–TRPC7).

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