Vanilloids mediate their effects by selective agonism of an ion channel, the vanilloid receptor 1 (TRPV1). TRPV1 is a ligand-gated, non-selective, cation channel preferentially expressed in small-diameter, primary
afferent neurons, including nociceptive sensory nerves. In addition to be activated by capsaicin and related vanilloids, TRPV1 responds to heat and extracellular acidification, and will integrate simultaneous exposures to these stimuli. The aim of this book is to summarize
recent insights in the role of TRPV1 in pain and inflammation, and to discuss how modulation of this receptor may lead to
important advances in analgesic drug development. Insights into the prospects for the…
