Abstract:
Environmental physical, chemical, and biological factors are intricately associated with the life activities of animals. Perceiving changes in these factors is critical for animals to avoid harmful stimuli or migrate to suitable habitats. Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, members of cation channel family, depolarize the membrane potential and regulate intracellular cation concentrations, such as Ca
2+. These proteins not only play a mediating role in the perception of environmental stimuli by animals but also are deeply involved in various physiological processes, including immune inflammatory responses, thus functioning as “biosensors”. This review provides a comprehensive overview of TRP family structure and classification, with a particular emphasis on the latest advancements in their functions related to temperature sensing and inflammation regulation. It also thoroughly summarizes the pivotal roles of TRP family proteins in environmental adaptation (temperature, osmotic regulation, and chemical perception) and physiological regulation (feeding behavior, immune defense, and reproduction) of aquatic animals. Additionally, the review explores the potential of TRP protein family as drug targets and in the prevention and control of aquatic animal diseases as well as in breeding, providing theoretical insights for promoting the healthy development of aquaculture industry.