The Scripps Research Institute(Jobs) Research Team Sheds Light on Long-Sought Cold Sensation Gene

LA JOLLA, CA, May 2, 2007—For years, scientists have struggled to identify the genes responsible for mammals' sensation of cold. Finally, scientists from The Scripps Research Institute and the Novartis Research Foundation have shown that a gene called TRPM8 is responsible for the bulk of this ability in mice. The discovery, reported in the May 3 issue of the journal Neuron, might one day lead to the development of drugs that induce cold sensation as an analgesic, or block it to prevent certain forms of chronic pain associated with cold sensation.

>>> Discuss This Story

Back to news