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Behavioral role of the canonical transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channel, TRP‐1, in C. elegans

TRP ion channels are a diverse group of Ca2+ permeable channels expressed in a wide range of organisms. Although it is evident that several TRP channels function in the detection of a variety of sensory stimuli, the physiological functions of most identified TRPs is unknown. The nematode C. elegans provides numerous and unique experimental advantages over vertebrate systems for defining the physiological roles and mechanisms of regulation of TRP channels. The aim of the present study was to investigate the biological function of TRP‐1 channels in C. elegans. TRP‐1 is a member of the canonical TRP (TRPC) channel family and is expressed in motor neurons, vulval muscles and enteric muscles of the worm. We obtained a TRP‐1 knockout strain from the C. elegans genetics center and conducted a detailed battery of tests to analyze worm behaviors related to the cells that normally express TRP‐1. Defecation behavior was significantly affected in TRP‐1 knockout animals. Specifically, enteric muscle contractions were absent from 10% of the defecation cycles. Egg‐laying behavior, which is dependent on the proper functioning of the vulval muscles, was also analyzed. No significant differences were observed in the rate of egg‐laying in TRP‐1 knockout animals compared to N2 controls. Finally, motor neurons play a very important role in C. elegans locomotion. Data on the various locomotion assays conducted will also be presented.