ASIC1a as an integrating node in ischemic neurotoxicity: crosstalk with NMDAR and TRPM signaling

Ischemic stroke triggers acidosis, glutamate excitotoxicity and oxidative stress, which converge to disturb ionic homeostasis through several cation channels, including acid-sensing ion channel 1a (ASIC1a), N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) and transient receptor potential melastatin (TRPM) channels. Emerging evidence suggests that ASIC1a functions as a context-dependent integrating node: protons directly gate ASIC1a, glutamate and bilirubin-associated signaling can modulate ASIC1a-dependent injury pathways. ASIC1a directly couples with NMDAR-dependent signaling and indirectly engages TRPM-associated pathways. Here, we discuss the mechanistic basis, therapeutic potential and unresolved questions regarding ASIC1a-associated signaling in ischemic brain injury.