The Ca2+-Permeable Cation Transient Receptor Potential TRPV3 Channel: An Emerging Pivotal Target for Itch and Skin Diseases

Temperature-sensitive transient receptor potential (TRP) channels such as TRPA1 and TRPV1 have been identified as downstream ion channel targets in the transduction of itch. As a member of the temperature-sensitive TRP family, the Ca²⁺-permeable nonselective cation channel TRPV3 is expressed abundantly in skin keratinocytes. Recent identification of gain-of-function mutations of human TRPV3 from patients with Olmsted syndrome, which is characterized by severe itching and palmoplantar and periorificial keratoderma, unveils its crucial role in chronic itch and skin diseases. In this review, we will focus on recent progress made in the understanding of TRPV3 that emerges as an attractive target for developing effective antipruritic therapy for chronic itch or skin-related diseases.