TRPM8 channels: A review of distribution and clinical role

Ion channels are important therapeutic targets due to their plethoric involvement in physiological and pathological consequences. The transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily M member 8 (TRPM8) is a nonselective cation channel that controls Ca2+ homeostasis. It has been proposed to be the predominant thermoreceptor for cellular and behavioral responses to cold stimuli in the transient receptor potential (TRP) channel subfamilies and exploited so far to reach the clinical-stage of drug development. TRPM8 channels can be found in multiple organs and tissues, regulating several important processes such as cell proliferation, migration and apoptosis, inflammatory reactions, immunomodulatory effects, pain, and vascular muscle tension. The related disorders have been expanded to new fields ranging from cancer and migraine to dry eye disease, pruritus, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and chronic cough. This review is aimed to summarize the distribution of TRPM8 and disorders related to it from a clinical perspective, so as to broaden the scope of knowledge of researchers to conduct more studies on this subject.