TRP channels as emerging targets for pain therapeutics.
BACKGROUND
The transient receptor potential (TRP) superfamily of ion channels are a large and diverse group that have received increased attention in recent years. The sub-family of thermo-TRPs which are regulated by temperature, among other physical and chemical stimuli, are of particular interest for the development of potential pain therapeutics.


OBJECTIVE
We review the advances in the field in recent years, focusing on a rationale for pain therapy and potential challenges associated with these targets.


CONCLUSIONS
Vanilloid-type TRP 1 (TRPV1) is the most well studied and advanced member of the family, with selective agonists and antagonists already in clinical use or development, respectively. Among other thermo-TRPs (including TRPV2 - 4, Ankyrin type TRP 1 (TRPA1) and melastatin type TRP 8 (TRPM8)), TRPA1 and TRPM8 are emerging as promising novel pain targets.
Broad
Lisa M
LM
Eli Lilly and Company, Lilly Research Centre, Erl Wood Manor, Sunninghill Road, Windlesham, Surrey, GU20 6PH, UK. broad_lisa@lilly.com
Mogg
Adrian J
AJ
Beattie
Ruth E
RE
Ogden
Ann-Marie
AM
Blanco
Maria-Jesus
MJ
Bleakman
David
D
D000818:Animals; D006801:Humans; D010146:Pain / Q000188:drug therapy*; D050052:TRPC Cation Channels / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000502:physiology
D050052:TRPC Cation Channels