Response to Article about the Capsaicin Receptor Essay -- Biology Caps

The Summary of "The capsaicin receptor: a heat-activated ion channel in the pain pathway" Capsaicin is a natural product of capsicum peppers, that is an active ingredient in many hot foods. When nociceptors- neurons that transmit information regarding tissue damage to pain-processing centers in the spinal cord and brain- come in contact with capsaicin, the neuron gets excited, and there is a perception of pain, and the a local release of inflammatory mediators. These nociceptors get excited by increasing permeability of plasma membrane to cations, but the molecular mechanism explaining this phenomenon is unclear. Capsaicin is being used in an analgesic agent in the treatment of painful disorders, causing long-term loss of responsiveness because it kills off the nociceptor, or it destroys the peripheral terminals. It was decide that the existence of a receptor site represents the most likely mechanism, because the capsaicin derivative showed structure-function relationships and evoked responses in a dose-dependent manner. A competitive capsaicin antagonist called capsazepi ne strengthened this model, along with discovering resiniferatoxin, an extremely potent capsaicin analogue for Euphorbia plants that mimics the cellular action of capsaicin. The cloning of a gene encoding a capsaicin receptor was decided to help develop more understanding of the molecular nature of capsaicin action and its relationship to endogenous pain signaling mechanisms. A cDNA clone that reconstitutes capsaicin responsiveness in non-neuronal cells was isolated. It was discovered that capsaicin gives off burning sensations through the activation of a heat-gated ion channel that is likely to contribute to the detection of painful thermal stimuli in vivo. ... ...as well as help cure strains and sprains. Capsaicin may even regrow your hair! Capsaicin Prescription Information Generic Name: Capsaicin Chemical Name: trans-8-methyl-N-vanilly-6-nonenamide Common Uses: This medicine is used to relieve pain caused by inflammation and surgery and other conditions as determined by your doctor. Type of Medicine: non-habit forming, analgesic drug, for topical use only. Dosage: Apply three to four times daily. Possible Side Effects: This medicine may cause temporary stinging or burning sensations. If sensation persists, discontinue use and consult your physician. There are no known harmful interactions with other drugs. Cautions: Do not use this medicine is under the age of 2. Do not apply around eyes, nasal passages, or genitals. May cause burning or inflammation. The FDA has approved levels of 0.025% to 0.25%, topical.