Genetic Exploration of Targeting the Transient Receptor Potential Cation Channel Subfamily Member 6

The transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily member 6 (TRPC6) represents an emerging druggable target with a broad therapeutic spectrum. TRPC6 Inhibitors are currently investigated for focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, acute respiratory distress syndrome due to COVID-19, and pulmonary hypertension. In the cardiovascular system, there is evidence that TRPC6 is critically involved in the development of cardiac hypertrophy, arrhythmia susceptibility and risk of restenosis after coronary stent implantation. However, data on systemic effects of TRPC6 modulation remain scarce. To assess the phenotypic consequences of inhibiting TRPC6 in different organ systems, we explored public databases to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that are associated with TRPC6 expression in different tissues. A phenome-wide association study was then performed in 475,739 individuals of UK Biobank to associate genetically mediated reduced TRPC6 expression with 64 phenotypes in nine organ/disease categories. Lower TRPC6 expression was nominally associated with reduced risk of anxiety, heart failure, and stroke, as well as an increased risk of venous thromboembolism, hypertension, appendicitis, and liver cirrhosis. After correction for multiple testing, lower TRPC6 expression remained significantly associated with reduced risk of coronary artery disease and atrial fibrillation. Notably, no deleterious phenotypes were observed, suggesting a favorable profile of systemic TRPC6 inhibition. While these findings indicate potential therapeutic benefits, nominally associated phenotypes, however, mandate careful clinical investigation and provide a basis for further experimental exploration.