1.
J Neurosci
; 28(17): 4331-5, 2008 Apr 23.
Artículo
en Inglés
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-18434511
RESUMEN
Cowhage spicules provide an important model for histamine-independent itch. We determined that the active component of cowhage, termed mucunain, is a novel cysteine protease. We isolated mucunain and demonstrate that both native and recombinant mucunain evoke the same quality of itch in humans. We also show that mucunain is a ligand for protease-activated receptors two and four. These results support and expand the relationship between proteases, protease-activated receptors, and itch.