Subunit interaction in channel assembly and functional regulation of transient receptor potential melastatin (TRPM) channels

Functional TRPM (transient receptor potential melastatin) ion channels are multimers, thought to be tetramers. Subunit interaction is the prerequisite step in channel assembly, and the specificity of subunit interaction is crucial in assembling channels with distinct functional properties. In addition, expression of short non-functional subunits and their interaction with full-length subunits serve as one of the post-translational mechanisms regulating the channel activity. This paper aims to provide an overview of the current knowledge of TRPM subunit interactions and their roles in assembly and functional regulation of the TRPM channels.