The diversity in the vanilloid (TRPV) receptor family of ion channels.
Following cloning of the vanilloid receptor 1 (VR1) at least four other related proteins have been identified. Together, these form a distinct subgroup of the transient receptor potential (TRP) family of ion channels. Members of the vanilloid receptor family (TRPV) are activated by a diverse range of stimuli, including heat, protons, lipids, phorbols, phosphorylation, changes in extracellular osmolarity and/or pressure, and depletion of intracellular Ca2+ stores. However, VR1 remains the only channel activated by vanilloids such as capsaicin. These channels are excellent molecular candidates to fulfil a range of sensory and/or cellular roles that are well characterized physiologically. Furthermore, as novel pharmacological targets, the vanilloid receptors have potential for the development of many future disease treatments.
Gunthorpe
Martin J
MJ
Neurology-CEDD, GlaxoSmithKline, New Frontiers Science Park, Third Avenue, CM19 5AW, Harlow, UK. Martin_J_Gunthorpe@gsk.com
Benham
Christopher D
CD
Randall
Andrew
A
Davis
John B
JB
D000818:Animals; D002211:Capsaicin / Q000378:metabolism*; D006801:Humans; D007473:Ion Channels / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors / Q000145:classification / Q000502:physiology*; D011955:Receptors, Drug / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors / Q000145:classification / Q000502:physiology*
D007473:Ion Channels; D011955:Receptors, Drug; D002211:Capsaicin