Vanilloid receptors--comparison of structure and functions in mammals and invertebrates.

The vanilliod receptor subfamily belongs to the transient receptor potential family of ion channels. Vanilloid receptors are calcium-permeable channels highly expressed in many different cells, both excitable and nonexcitable, in invertebrates (nematodes, insects) and vertebrates (mammals). These receptors are sensitive to a wide range of stimuli (chemical, mechanical, osmotic and temperature) that often activate the same channel. This review focuses on recent information, both bibliographic and experimental evidence of the author, concerning the structure and functions of vanilloid receptors, especially those connected with thermoregulation.