Exercise Training Alters Expression of Acid Sensing Ion Channels (ASICs) in Sensory Pathways

Abstract

Exercise is an effective therapy for numerous pathological conditions that are associated with elevated metabolites and inflammatory factors. These chemicals can activate receptors on peripheral sensory neurons, such as Acid Sensing Ion Channels (ASICs) and Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1 (TRPV1). High-intensity exercise can induce release of protons, metabolites, and inflammatory factors, which are known to activate ASICs and TRPV1 and elicit reflex-mediated changes in hemodynamics and respiration, as well as pain perception and fatigue.