An array for determining agonists, antagonists, or modulators for acid-sensi ng ion channels. The assay is especially useful fo screening analgesics. The screening assay can be provided in a kit form. The assay comprises administering the composition to be screened to cells expressing acid-gated channels and then determining whether the composition inhibits, enhances, or has no effect on the channels when acid is introduced. The determination can be performed by analyzing whether a current is sustained by the cells in the presence of the composition and the acid. This current can be compared to th at sustained by the FMRFamide and related peptides.
PEPTIDE POTENTIATION OF ACID-SENSORY ION CHANNEL IN PAIN