TRPC1 and TRPC5 in Colorectal Cancer: Mechanisms, Prognostic Markers, and Therapeutic Targets

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most frequent and deadliest cancers worldwide, ranking third in prevalence and second in cancer-related deaths. Treating CRC remains a major challenge due to several factors: many cases are diagnosed at advanced stages, variable response to treatment due to genetic differences in patients, chemotherapy resistance, and the adverse effects of existing therapies. This highlights the urgent need for early diagnostic markers and effective treatments with fewer side effects. Recent research has identified transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) channels as key regulators in the development and progression of cancer, although their specific role in CRC is not yet fully characterized. This review summarizes TRPCs pathophysiological functions, signaling pathways, interactions with other calcium channels, and their potential use as diagnostic and prognostic tools in clinical practice. Special emphasis is given to TRPC1 and TRPC5, as they represent the most extensively studied members of the TRPC family. This review also discusses potential therapeutic approaches targeting them, offering valuable insights for further advances in CRC research.