ThermoTRP channels and beyond: mechanisms of temperature sensation

We possess an acute sense of temperature. Most of us seek shade on a hot summer day, prefer a warm shower to a cold one, and enjoy red wines served at a temperature of 15–18°C. Thermosensation not only affects our comfort, but is also essential for the survival of most organisms. We are now beginning to uncover the molecular identity of proteins that confer thermosensation. The thermoTRPs, a subset of transient receptor potential ion channels are activated by distinct physiological temperatures, and are involved in converting thermal information into chemical and electrical signals within the sensory nervous system.