Experts have found that nicotine activates a molecular receptor that is involved in the processes of inflammation and pain. This receptor, called TRPA1, is located in the nerve endings in the skin, as explained in the latest issue of the journal Nature Neuroscience.

The work, which has been tested in mice, indicates that activation of this receptor, an excitatory ion channel, may be responsible for the irritation produced by nicotine in anti smoking therapies when applied locally by nasal sprays or using patches over skin.

CSIC researcher Felix Viana of the Church said that “it was thought that the irritation produced by nicotine was due solely to stimulation of nicotine receptors already known.” “We – he continued – we have shown that nicotine can directly activate TRPA1 protein, which acts as a trigger of neuronal signals that transmit sensations of burning and pain.”

Researchers also have found that mice lacking the TRPA1 protein present no further irritation after administering intranasal nicotine.

“We have shown that nicotine has an irritating effect similar to that produced by other substances activating TRPA1, including mustard, onion, garlic, and emissions from the tailpipes of cars. In the future, this finding could be useful for developing new therapies against smoking, having fewer adverse effects, “said Viana.

In the work involved for the CSIC, Felix Viana and Victor Meseguer, CSIC researchers in Sensory Transduction Group and Nociception Neuroscience Institute of Alicante (a joint CSIC and University Miguel Hernandez).

The first author of the work, Karel Talavera, belongs to the laboratory for the study of ion channels (Catholic University of Leuven) and is currently undertaking a stay as guest researcher at the working group of researchers from the CSIC.