Referenced in: none

Automatically associated channels: TRP , TRPV , TRPV1

Title: Multisteric TRPV1 nocisensor: a target for analgesics.

Authors: János Szolcsányi, Zoltán Sándor

Journal, date & volume: Trends Pharmacol. Sci., 2012 Dec , 33, 646-55

PubMed link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23068431

Abstract
Cloning of the transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1), the heat-gated cation channel/capsaicin receptor expressed by sensory neurons, has opened the door for development of new types of analgesics that selectively act on nociceptors. Here we summarize mutagenetic evidence for selective loss of responsiveness to vanilloids, protons, and heat stimuli to provide clues for avoiding on-target side effects of hyperthermia and burn risk. It is suggested that the complex chemoceptive thermosensor function of TRPV1 (which is modulated by depolarizing stimuli) can be attributed to multisteric gating functions. In this way, it forms the prototype of a new class of ion channels different from the canonical voltage-gated and ligand-gated ones. Several endogenous lipid ligands activate and inhibit TRPV1 and its gating initiates sensory transducer and mediator-releasing functions. Second generation TRPV1 antagonists that do not induce hyperthermia are under development, and a dermal capsaicin patch is already on the market for long-term treatment of neuropathic pain.