Stimuli-sensing channels

Stimuli-sensing channels Ion channels that mediate sensations such as pain, warmth, cold, taste pressure and vision. Channels that mediate these sensations include acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) (Wang & Xu 2011, Qadri et al. 2012, Deval et al. 2010) and the transient receptor potential channels (TRPCs) (Takahashi et al. 2012, Numata et al. 2011 in "TRP Channels" Zhu, MX editor, CRC Press, 2011, Ramsey et al. 2006, Montell 2005). Many channels are sensitive to changes in calcium (Ca2+) levels, both inside and outside the cell. Examples are protein tweety homologs 2 and 3 (TTYH2, 3) (Suzuki 2006), bestrophins 1-4 (BEST1-4) (Sun et al. 2002, Tsunenari et al. 2003, Kunzelmann et al. 2009, Hartzell et al. 2008) and ryanodine receptor tetramers (RYRs) (Beard et al. 2009).