Description
VR1 (vanilloid receptor 1) is a channel activated by capsaicin, the pungent ingredient in hot peppers. It was isolated from sensory neurons. Sequence analysis suggests that VR1 has six transmembrane domains and intracellular N- and C-termini. It shares structural similarities with the family of putative store-operated calcium channels. VR1 is expressed by nociceptive sensory neurons. It is activated by noxious heat and is thought to function as transducer of noxious thermal stimuli