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Acid sensing ion channels and acid nociception
1PainCeptor Pharma Corp., Ville St- Laurent, Québec, Canada. gdube@painceptor.com
Current Pharmaceutical Design
|May 16, 2009
Summary
Acid Sensing Ion Channels (ASICs) are crucial for sensing acidity and pain. This review explores their role in nociception and highlights ASICs as potential targets for novel pain-relief drugs.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Acid Sensing Ion Channels (ASICs) are proton-gated cation channels primarily found in neurons.
- Their sensitivity to acidosis and presence in sensory neurons suggest a role in pain perception.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing data on ASICs, including genetic and pharmacological information.
- To discuss the role of ASICs in normal and pathological pain sensation.
- To summarize drug discovery efforts targeting ASICs for pain management.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of genetic, pharmacological, and physiological data on ASICs.
- Analysis of ASIC distribution and function in sensory neurons.
- Summary of ongoing drug development targeting ASICs.
Main Results:
- ASICs are implicated in acid-induced pain (acid nociception).
- Despite over a decade of research, their full physiological and pathophysiological roles are still being elucidated.
- ASICs represent a promising target for developing new pain-modulating therapeutics.
Conclusions:
- ASICs play a significant role in pain signaling, particularly in response to acidosis.
- Further research is needed to fully understand ASIC function in various pain states.
- Targeting ASICs holds potential for effective pain management strategies.
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