What sensory neuron receptor does capsaicin activate to initiate thermogenesis?
Answer
TRPV1
The process by which consuming hot peppers increases the body's heat generation rate, known as thermogenesis, begins with capsaicin binding to a specific sensory neuron receptor called TRPV1. This receptor is normally activated by actual painful heat or physical irritation. When capsaicin binds to TRPV1, it mimics this high-heat signal, tricking the nervous system into triggering thermogenesis, which elevates energy expenditure and contributes to the potential for calorie burning. This same receptor activation is also central to capsaicin's role in pain management through subsequent desensitization.

#Videos
How Hot Peppers May Extend Your Life - YouTube
Related Questions
Which chemical compound is primarily attributed to the fiery kick in hot peppers?What sensory neuron receptor does capsaicin activate to initiate thermogenesis?Capsaicin aids in pain management by blocking the production of which chemical messenger?For what condition is topical capsaicin medically FDA-approved?Adults consuming one hot red chili pepper per month over two decades showed what reduction in premature death risk?How many times the Vitamin C content found in oranges can hot peppers contain?What substance is more effective than water at dissolving capsaicin during an accidental oral burn?Which preparation method is considered optimal for preserving both Capsaicin and Vitamin C?High spicy food intake correlates with increased risk for which cancers in human observational studies?High consumption of hot peppers can cause adverse GI events like cramping for individuals with which specific syndrome?