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Protein Impacts Feeling Cold

University of Michigan researchers have pinpointed the protein responsible for mammals sensing cold, a significant advancement in sensory biology. Published in Nature Neuroscience, their findings may elucidate how humans perceive and respond to cold temperatures and why certain medical conditions alter cold sensitivity. Neuroscientist Shawn Xu, a senior author, highlights the long-standing mystery surrounding cold temperature sensing despite discoveries in heat and warmth receptors. Previous research identified a cold-sensing protein in Caenorhabditis elegans, leading to the verification of GluK2 as the cold sensor in mammals through experiments on mice lacking the GluK2 gene. GluK2, primarily found in the brain, also functions in the peripheral nervous system to process temperature cues, offering insights into ancient sensory mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets for conditions like chemotherapy-induced cold sensitivity.

Study

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The ideas expressed here are solely the opinions of the author and are not researched or verified by AGEIST LLC, or anyone associated with AGEIST LLC. This material should not be construed as medical advice or recommendation, it is for informational use only. We encourage all readers to discuss with your qualified practitioners the relevance of the application of any of these ideas to your life. The recommendations contained herein are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. You should always consult your physician or other qualified health provider before starting any new treatment or stopping any treatment that has been prescribed for you by your physician or other qualified health provider. Please call your doctor or 911 immediately if you think you may have a medical or psychiatric emergency.

Taylor Marks
Taylor Marks is a certified holistic health coach and professionally trained chef from The Institute of Culinary Education. Her passions include the latest research in health science, culinary arts, holistic wellness, and guiding others towards feeling their best.