Prospects for the Development of Novel Analgesics Targeting the TRPM8 Ion Channel

By Lahari Nagodavithana

EMS300 Student Conference 2026

Slide 1: PHARMACOLOGY HONOURS PROJECT. A full description follows.

Summary

The presentation outlines a pharmacology honours project focused on developing novel analgesics targeting the TRPM8 ion channel, which plays a key role in modulating pain. It highlights the prevalence of chronic neuropathic pain and the limitations of current opioid therapies. The project explores the mechanisms by which TRPM8 activation can provide non-opioid pain relief, particularly through ligand-specific activation and the role of PIP2 as a co-factor. Clinical evidence suggests potential benefits of topical menthol, though further research is needed to identify more effective TRPM8 agonists and pain conditions responsive to this approach.