ABSTRACT: The aim of this review is to address the recent advances regarding the use of pharmacological agents to target transient receptor potential (TRP) channels in cancer and their potential application in therapeutics. Physiologically, TRP channels are responsible for cation entry (Ca2+, Na+, Mg2+) in many mammalian cells and regulate a large number of cellular functions. ... Continue Reading
Cancer
STUDY: Loss of TRPV2 Homeostatic Control of Cell Proliferation Drives Tumor Progression
ABSTRACT: Herein we evaluate the involvement of the TRPV2 channel, belonging to the Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid channel family (TRPVs), in development and progression of different tumor types. In normal cells, the activation of TRPV2 channels by growth factors, hormones, and endocannabinoids induces a translocation of the receptor from the endosomal compartment to ... Continue Reading
STUDY: Alternative targets within the endocannabinoid system for future treatment of gastrointestinal diseases
ABSTRACT: Many beneficial effects of herbal and synthetic cannabinoids on gut motility and inflammation have been demonstrated, suggesting a vast potential for these compounds in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. These effects are based on the so-called ‘endocannabinoid system’ (ECS), a cooperating network of molecules that regulate the metabolism of the body’s ... Continue Reading
STUDY: Cancer – What do we know about the Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 2 (TRPV2) ion channel?
ABSTRACT: Transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels are emerging as a new set of membrane proteins involved in a vast array of cellular processes and regulated by a large number of physical and chemical stimuli, which involves them with sensory cell physiology. The vanilloid TRP subfamily (TRPV) named after the vanilloid receptor 1 (TRPV1) consists of six members, and ... Continue Reading
STUDY: Cannabinoid and cannabinoid-like receptors in microglia, astrocytes and astrocytomas
ABSTRACT: CB1 and CB2 receptors are activated by a plethora of cannabinoid compounds, be they endogenously-produced, plant-derived or synthetic. These receptors are expressed by microglia, astrocytes and astrocytomas, and their activation regulates these cells’ differentiation, functions and viability. Recent studies show that glial cells also express cannabinoid-like ... Continue Reading