Touch a hot plate and your hand flies back. While the response is almost instant, researchers are still working to better understand the molecular mechanisms behind these sensations of heat and pain.

Stephen has degrees in science (Physics major) and arts (English Literature and the History and Philosophy of Science), as well as a Graduate Diploma in Science Communication. Stephen has degrees in ...

The endocannabinoid system is the body’s system that regulates an array of other systems in the body. It works to maintain homeostasis by the use of receptors, cannabinoids, and metabolic pathways ...

You know you've sworn off spicy foods a dozen times, only to eat even spicier dishes. Why do we put ourselves through such agony? The secret is in our brains.

Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. Nobody likes to feel pain, but it’s something every person will experience at some point in their life. But why is that? I am a ...

In a major brain science breakthrough, New Orleans-based researchers and collaborators have discovered a nerve signaling mechanism that takes place outside the cell, flipping on a 'pain switch.' This ...

Sometimes pain is a necessary warning signal; for example, if we touch something very hot and it burns, we know to move our hand away. But chronic pain can destroy a person's quality of life, and it ...

Disruption of the pain receptor transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 can affect mortality, blood bacteria clearance and cytokine response in sepsis, according to a study published in ...

TORONTO — Researchers at the University of Calgary have identified a new pain receptor involved in the acute pain suffered by people with arthritis and Crohn’s disease. Finding the receptor should ...

Hotter temperatures may render natural insect repellents less effective against mosquitoes, according to a new study. Hotter temperatures may render natural insect repellents less effective against ...

A new study has solved the decades-old mystery of why mint creates a cooling sensation, and the findings could help us develop better treatments for pain, congestion, and dry eye.