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Abstract:
The Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid Type-1 (TRPV1) was first
characterized in primary afferent fibers as a receptor for capsaicin
(the pungent ingredient of chili peppers). Later on, this
cation-permeable ion channel was also described in the central nervous
system, where its main putative endogenous ligand is N-arachidonoyl
ethanolamide (an endocannabinoid, also known as anandamide). Recent
results employing genetic, pharmacological and histochemical techniques
indicate that TRPV1 tonically modulate anxiety, fear and panic responses
in brain regions related to defensive responses, such as the dorsal
periaqueductal gray, the hippocampus and the medial prefrontal cortex.
Genetic deletion or antagonism of this ion channel induces
anxiolytic-like effects in several animal models. The main mechanism
responsible for TRPV1-mediated effects on anxiety seems to involve
facilitation of glutamatergic neurotransmission. In addition, there is
evidence for interactions with other neurotransmitter systems, such as
nitric oxide and endocannabinoids. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights
reserved.
