Internal friction as possible key factor governing the thermosensitivity of TRP channels

TL;DR

This paper proposes a physically based model suggesting that internal friction significantly influences the temperature-dependent gating of TRP channels, supported by computer simulations matching experimental data.

Contribution

It introduces a novel model linking internal friction to TRP channel thermosensitivity, providing a new perspective on their gating mechanism.

Findings

Successfully reproduced experimental open probability data for TRPV1 and TRPM8 channels

Identified internal friction as a key factor in temperature-dependent gating

Supported the model with computer simulations aligning with experimental results

Abstract

Six thermo-activated transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are the molecular basis of the thermosensation for mammals. But the molecular source of their gating remains unknown. In the Letter, we suggest a physically based model for the TRP channels and show that the temperature dependence of the "internal friction" can be a key factor governing the ion channels gating. Results of the computer modeling allowed us to successfully reproduce the experimental data for the open probability Popen of the TRPV1 and TRPM8 channels at different temperatures and voltages.