[Vanilloid receptors: structure, regulatory functions, pharmacology, therapeutic potential].

Transient receptor potential vanilloid (TRPV1), representing ion channel family, is activated in human and animal organism by capsaicin and some other factors such as heat, acidosis, and ion dysbalance. TRPV1 is a component of the endogenous system regulating various functions and participating in some pathologic processes. The structure, regulatory functions, mechanisms of activation, and chemistry of vanilloid receptors are reviewed and the mechanisms of their agonists and antagonists (including endogenous ligands) are considered. The results of experiments and clinical tests showing the therapeutic potential of vanilloids are considered.