Transient receptor potential melastatin 2 channels in neurological disorders: Mechanisms and animal models

Transient receptor potential melastatin 2 (TRPM2) is a calcium-permeable ion channel implicated in neurodegenerative disorders and conditions. It is activated in response to reactive oxygen species (ROS) and thereby alters Ca2+ homeostasis and initiates pathways that lead to apoptosis and cell dysfunction. This review summarizes the current role of TRPM2 in neurological disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, ischemia, traumatic brain injury, and depressive disorders (bipolar disease and depression). It describes the distribution and function of the TRPM2 channel across the brain and highlights common mechanisms between diseases. Specific animal and cell culture studies using TRPM2 inhibitors or genetic knockouts are discussed, including strategies to reduce the effect of ROS in disease through TRPM2 inhibition.