Hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) is a gaseous mediator in various physiological and pathological processes, including neuroimmune modulation, metabolic pathways, cardiovascular system, tumour growth, inflammation and pain. Now the hydrogen polysulfides (H 2 S n ) have been recognised as signalling molecules modulating ion channels, transcription factors and protein kinases. Transient receptor potential (TRP) cation channels can be activated by mechanical, thermal or chemical triggers. Here, we review the current literature regarding the biological actions of sulfide and polysulfide compounds mediated by TRP channels with special emphasis on the role of TRPA1, best known as ion channels in nociceptors. However, the non-neuronal TRPA1 channels should also be considered to play regulatory roles. Although sulfide and polysulfide effects in different pathological circumstances and TRPA1-mediated processes have been investigated intensively, our review attempts to present the first comprehensive overview of the potential crosstalk between TRPA1 channels and sulfide-activated signalling pathways. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed section on Chemical Biology of Reactive Sulfur Species. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v176.4/issuetoc., (© 2018 The Authors. British Journal of Pharmacology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of British Pharmacological Society.)