Transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) channels in diabetes and associated complications

TRPC channels are widely expressed in various tissues and cell types, and accumulating evidence indicates that they play critical roles in pancreatic β cell function, including the regulation of insulin secretion. Moreover, TRPC channels have been implicated in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its associated complications, underscoring their potential as therapeutic targets. Despite this, there remains a lack of comprehensive, up-to-date reviews summarizing the distribution and functional roles of TRPC channels in diabetes and its complications. In addition, the expression patterns and physiological significance of certain TRPC subtypes remain controversial. This review, therefore, aims to provide a thorough overview of current research, starting with general aspects of TRPC channel structure and function, and progressing to their physiological and pathological roles, with particular emphasis on their involvement in insulin secretion, insulin resistance, diabetes, and diabetic complications.