Effects of hyperthermia detection by T lymphocytes through the TRPV1 channel on acute kidney injury: a tropical study

• Grant number: 23/17499-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate (Direct)
• Start date: April 01, 2024
• End date: March 31, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Immunology - Applied Immunology
• Principal Investigator: Niels Olsen Saraiva Câmara
• Grantee: Suemy Melim Yamada
• Host Institution: Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas (ICB). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 17/05264-7 - Cell metabolism, microbiota and immune system: new paradigms in renal diseases physiopathology, AP.TEM

Abstract

Transient Receptor Potential (TRPs) are non-selective cationic channels that act as 'universal biological sensors' in various cell types, detecting sensory changes in both extracellular and intracellular environments. Specifically, the TRPV1 channel acts as a sensor for harmful temperatures, leading to increased channel permeability to Ca2+ and pore dilation, promoting an influx of Ca2+ from the extracellular environment through the plasma membrane. TRPV1 is ubiquitously expressed and present in immune system cells, where it functions in various ways depending on the cellular context. Especially in lymphocytes, it has a promoting effect on activation, differentiation, and proliferation.TRPV1 has been associated in several studies as a promoter of kidney injuries, involving cell death via apoptotic and necrotic pathways, or affecting renal homeostasis. Furthermore, exposure to high temperatures has also been associated with an increased risk of kidney injury, potentially causing acute kidney injury and even progression to chronic kidney disease. Epidemiological data reinforce the influence of the increase in global average temperature on the incidence of kidney injuries, highlighting the need for studies to improve prevention and treatment of this epidemic. It is in this context that we propose that TRPV1 could be a therapeutic target for the treatment of acute kidney injuries derived from exposure to high temperatures, acting in the prevention of chronic kidney disease development.Considering the role of TRPV1 in immune cells, especially in T lymphocytes, and its influence on kidney injuries, the objective of this work is, therefore, to investigate TRPV1 as a promoter of renal injuries in response to high-temperature detection through the activation of both CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes.