Thermoregulatory heat-escape/cold-seeking behavior in mice and the influence of TRPV1 channels

The present study assessed heat-escape/cold-seeking behavior during thermoregulation in mice and the influence of TRPV1 channels. Mice received subcutaneous injection of capsaicin (50 mg/kg; CAP group) for desensitization of TRPV1 channels or vehicle (control [CON] group). In Experiment 1, heat-escape/cold-seeking behavior was assessed using a newly developed system comprising five temperature-controlled boards placed in a cross-shape. Each mouse completed three 90-min trials. In the trials, the four boards, including the center board, were set at either 36˚C, 38˚C, or 40˚C, while one corner board was set at 32˚C, which was rotated every 5 min. In Experiment 2, mice were exposed to an ambient temperature of 37˚C for 30 min. cFos expression in the preoptic area of the hypothalamus (POA) was assessed. In Experiment 1, the CON group stayed on the 32˚C board for the longest duration relative to that on other boards, and intra-abdominal temperature (T(abd)) was maintained. In the CAP group, no preference for the 32˚C board was observed, and T(abd) increased. In Experiment 2, cFos expression in the POA decreased in the CAP group. Capsaicin-induced desensitization of TRPV1 channels suppressed heat-escape/cold-seeking behavior in mice during heat exposure, resulting in hyperthermia. In conclusion, our findings suggest that heat sensation from the body surface may be a key inducer of thermoregulatory behaviors in mice.