title: Current perspectives on the modulation of thermo-TRP channels: new advances and therapeutic implications.
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.
authors: Deptartment of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Rd, Cambridge, CB2 1PD, UK.
authors: Laura
authors: L
authors: Vay
authors: Chunjing
authors: C
authors: Gu
authors: Peter A
authors: PA
authors: McNaughton