Abstract
Calcium (Ca(2+)) is an essential signaling molecule in all cells. It is involved in numerous fundamental functions, including cell life and death. Abnormal regulation of Ca(2+) homeostasis may cause human diseases. Usually known as a member of the transient receptor potential (TRP) family, TRP ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) is the only member of the ankyrin subfamily identified in mammals so far and widely expressed in cells and tissues. As it is involved in numerous sensory disorders such as pain and pruritus, TRPA1 is a potential target for the treatment of neuropathy. The functions of TRP family members are closely related to Ca(2+). TRPA1 has a high permeability to Ca(2+), sodium and potassium ions as a non-selective cation channel and the Ca(2+) influx mediated by TRPA1 is involved in a variety of biological processes. In the present review, research on the relationship between the TRPA1 channel and Ca(2+) ions and their interaction in disease-associated processes was summarised. The therapeutic potential of the TRPA1 channel is highlighted, which is expected to become a novel direction for the prevention and treatment of health conditions such as cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.