Scientists map cellular receptors that trigger inflammation and sensory changes

Scientists have mapped cellular receptors that trigger inflammation and sensory changes, potentially leading to new treatments for various diseases. The research details the atomic structure of human P2X7 and P2X2 receptors, which detect extracellular ATP, a signal of cell damage, and are implicated in conditions like cancer, brain diseases, and hearing loss. These findings provide a foundation for developing targeted drugs to modulate receptor activity, offering hope for more effective therapies for a range of human health issues.