The potential of TRPV1 agonists for treating ischemia/reperfusion-induced renal injuries.

Abstract

Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R)-induced injury of the vital organs is a well-known pathology that can lead to increased morbidity and mortality. Several pharmacological therapeutic options have been explored for the prevention and attenuation of I/R-induced injury. The TRPV1 (transient receptor potential vanilloid 1) channel, which is primarily expressed in the sensory nerves, represents a new target molecule. Studies have demonstrated that modulation of sensory nerve activity can attenuate local inflammatory responses, and may function in the maintenance of tissue integrity. The activation of the TRPV1 receptor by its agonists reduces inflammation during I/R-induced injury through several pathways. TRPV1 agonists have demonstrated beneficial effects in the prevention of renal I/R-induced injury. This review focuses on recent developments in investigational drugs that target TRPV1 and/or the downstream pathways activated by TRPV1 for the prevention or treatment of I/R-induced injury of the kidneys.