Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 27, 2026

A Simple and Inexpensive Method for Determining Cold Sensitivity and Adaptation in Mice
Published on: March 17, 2015
TRP channels and thermosensation
1Laboratory of Ion Channel Research and TRP Research Platform Leuven (TRPLe), KU Leuven, Herestraat 49 bus 802, 3000, Leuven, Belgium, thomas.voets@med.kuleuven.be.
Abstract:
Several TRP channels exhibit highly temperature-dependent gating properties, which leads to steep changes in depolarising current upon either cooling or heating. Based on this characteristic feature, these so-called "thermoTRPs" have been widely studied with the aim to elucidate their potential key role as thermosensors in the somatosensory system and to understand the basis of their high thermal sensitivity. In this chapter, I provide a brief critical overview of current knowledge on the role of TRP channels in thermosensing and on the thermodynamic and molecular basis of their steep temperature dependence.
Related Concept Videos
Thermosensation
Mechanically-gated Ion Channels
G-Protein Gated Ion Channels
Sensory...
Thermoregulation
Body Temperature
Body Temperature
The average body temperature is approximately 37°C (98.6°F) and typically ranges from 36.1–37.2°C...

