Vanillyl butyl ether patch application enhances thermosensory perception and alters microcirculatory dynamics in the...

Transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) channels contribute to thermosensory perception and microvascular regulation; however, the physiological effects of the non-pungent TRPV1 agonist vanillyl butyl ether (VBE) in humans remain unclear.

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial investigated the acute effects of a VBE patch application on cutaneous circulation and thermal perception in 13 healthy adults. Participants received a 30-min application of either a VBE patch or a visually identical placebo patch on the forearm while cutaneous blood flow, skin temperature, and muscle oxygenation were continuously monitored, and subjective thermal sensation and comfort were assessed every 2 min.

The VBE patch condition showed an increase in cutaneous blood flow without altering skin temperature or muscle oxygenation, indicating a localized superficial microvascular effect. VBE also induced warmth sensations and greater thermal discomfort than placebo, with ratings corresponding to a level between "slightly uncomfortable" and "uncomfortable."

These findings suggest that topical VBE may increase cutaneous blood flow and alter thermosensory responses without producing measurable changes in skin temperature or muscle oxygen saturation.