Wasabi Receptor -- Side View (IMAGE)

University of California - San Francisco

Wasabi Receptor -- Side View

Caption

This side view of the wasabi, or TRPA1 ("trip A1") receptor shows that it is composed of four parts, known as subunits, which are colored yellow, green, blue, and red for clarity. These receptors are embedded in nerve cell membranes, and a tunnel, or channel, is formed by the four subunits. When the receptor is activated by wasabi or certain other stimuli, this channel opens, allowing ions such as potassium and calcium to pass from outside the cell (top) to inside the cell (bottom). This activates the nerve cells, sending pain signals to the brain.

Credit

Courtesy of UC San Francisco.

Usage Restrictions

None

License

Licensed content

Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.