TRPML1

TRPML1 (or mucolipin 1) is the first member of the TRP family of ion channels that was found to function in the lower portions of the endocytic pathway. Mutations in the gene coding for TRPML1 (MCOLN1) cause the lysosomal storage disease mucolipidosis type IV (MLIV). TRPML1 localization in the lysosomes and the similarity of mucolipidosis type IV phenotype to lysosomal storage diseases whose origin has been directly linked to lysosomal dysfunction, suggest that TRPML1 activity drives some vitally important processes within the endocytic machinery. The specific aspect(s) of TRPML1 activity that make it indispensable for the proper function of the endocytic pathway as well as the specific aspect(s) of the endocytic activity that depend on TRPML1 are currently being discussed. Among the candidates are: membrane fusion within the lower portion of the endocytic pathway possibly mediated by Ca2+ release through TRPML1, or regulation of lysosomal ion homeostasis (pH or Fe content) by TRPML1. In addition to delineating the mechanisms of MLIV pathogenesis, identifying the role of TRPML1 in the endocytic pathway will lead to important developments in our understanding of the endocytic pathway and, due to the neurodegenerative nature of MLIV, of the integrative function of the cell. Moreover, molecular modulators of TRPML1 function may lead to novel approaches to modulating biological processes that depend on the endocytic pathway such as growth factor signaling. The present review will focus on the recent developments in identifying the TRPML1 function.