Topical application of nicotine, as used in nicotine replacement therapies, causes irritation of the mucosa and skin. This reaction had previously been attributed to the activation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in chemosensory neurons. However, the Talavera et al. now demonstrate that TRPA1 may be crucial for nicotine-induced irritation.
- Karel Talavera
- Maarten Gees
- Thomas Voets
