Progress in the role of TRPV4 as an osmo- and mechanosensor in systemic osmoregulation and renal functions

TRPV4 is a mammalian ion channel that can be gated by mechanical and osmotic stimuli. It is expressed in osmosensitive neurons of the hypothalamus as well as in the kidney, where its physiological role is unclear. In this thesis, we highlight the importance of hypothalamic TRPV4 in the response to hyperosmolar states. We also characterize its distribution along the nephron and study its role in the kidney functions. We observe the participation of TRPV4 in the mechanosensing of the proximal tubule cells, and in the mediation of blood pressure regulation on renin secretion by the juxtaglomerular cells. We thus progress on the comprehension of TRPV4 functions as a mechanosensor in kidney physiology.