The role of TRP channels in heat acclimation (P20)

• Subject Area: Pharmacology
• Term: since 2018
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 239283807

Heat acclimation (HA) is an adaptive process that improves heat tolerance. Our recent data indicates that leptin receptor-expressing (POALepR) neurons in the hypothalamic preoptic area acquire the ability to fire action potentials tonically ––and autonomously–– upon long-term HA. This pacemaker-like property is indispensable for mice to become heat resilient. Our preliminary data suggest that TRPC5-containing channels are required initially to support plastic changes in POALepR neurons early on, while TRPM4-dependent calcium oscillations support the persistent POA neuron activity at later stages of HA. Our goal is to dissect the function of TRP channels in neuronal plasticity driving HA and heat resilience.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 152: TRiPs to Homeostasis: Maintenance of Body Homeostasis by Transient Receptor Potential Channel Modules
• Applicant Institution: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
• Project Head: Professor Dr. Jan Siemens