TRPV1
Description
The TRPV1 (transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 17.
TRPV1, also known as the capsaicin receptor or vanilloid receptor 1, is a protein encoded by the TRPV1 gene in humans. It belongs to the transient receptor potential (TRP) family of ion channels, specifically the TRPV group. TRPV1 is crucial for detecting and regulating body temperature. It also mediates the sensation of scalding heat and pain (nociception). In primary afferent sensory neurons, it collaborates with TRPA1 (a chemical irritant receptor) to detect harmful environmental stimuli. TRPV1, a non-selective cation channel, is activated by various physical and chemical stimuli, including temperatures exceeding 43 °C, acidic conditions, capsaicin (found in hot peppers), and allyl isothiocyanate (present in mustard and wasabi). Its function is essential for the mammalian somatosensory system.
TRPV1 acts as a ligand-activated, non-selective calcium-permeable cation channel that detects harmful chemical and thermal stimuli. It facilitates proton influx and may contribute to intracellular acidosis in nociceptive neurons. TRPV1 plays a role in mediating inflammatory pain and hyperalgesia. Its activation is potentiated by a phosphatidylinositol second messenger system triggered by receptor tyrosine kinases, involving PKC isozymes and PCL. Stimulation by vanilloids like capsaicin and temperatures above 42 degrees Celsius leads to time- and calcium-dependent outward rectification, followed by a prolonged refractory state. Mild extracellular acidic pH (6.5) enhances channel activation by noxious heat and vanilloids, while acidic conditions (pH < 6) directly activate the channel. Endogenous compounds like 12-hydroperoxytetraenoic acid and bradykinin can also activate TRPV1. This channel functions as an ionotropic endocannabinoid receptor with central neuromodulatory effects. It triggers a form of long-term depression (TRPV1-LTD) mediated by the endocannabinoid anandamine in the hippocampus and nucleus accumbens, impacting AMPA receptor endocytosis.
TRPV1 is also known as VR1.
