Q8NER1

TRPV1 (also designated VR1) is activated by capsaicin, the active ingredient in chili peppers, by heat and by an increase in protons at sites of infection, inflammation and ischemia. By creating moderately acidic conditions, protons are able to lower the temperature threshold for VR1 activation, thus identifying VR1 as a molecular integrator of chemical and physical stimuli that elicit pain. VR1 is expressed in primary sensory neurons and vagal nerves and activated VR1 induces the influx of cations, particularly Ca2+ and Na+ ions. The vanilloid receptor may also be a molecular target for endogenous anandamide, in addition to the cannabinoid receptors, in the nervous and cardiovascular systems.