Referenced in: none

Automatically associated channels: TRP , TRPA , TRPA1 , TRPM , TRPM8 , TRPV , TRPV1

Title: Current perspectives on the modulation of thermo-TRP channels: new advances and therapeutic implications.

Authors: Laura Vay, Chunjing Gu, Peter A McNaughton

Journal, date & volume: Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol, 2010 Sep , 3, 687-704

PubMed link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22111750

Abstract
The thermo transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels, a recently discovered family of ion channels activated by temperature, are expressed in primary sensory nerve terminals, where they provide information regarding thermal changes in the environment. Six thermo-TRPs have been characterized to date: TRPV1-4, which respond to different levels of warmth and heat, and TRPM8 and TRPA1, which respond to cool temperatures. We review the current state of knowledge of thermo-TRPs, and of the modulation of their thermal thresholds by a range of inflammatory mediators. Blockers of these channels are likely to have therapeutic uses as novel analgesics but may also cause unacceptable side effects. Controlling the modulation of thermo-TRPs by inflammatory mediators may be a useful alternative strategy in developing novel analgesics.