the trpv3 protein belongs to a family of nonselective cation channels that function in a variety of processes, including temperature sensation and vasoregulation. the thermosensitive members of this family are expressed in subsets of human sensory neurons that terminate in the skin, and are activated at distinct physiological temperatures. this channel is activated at temperatures between 22 and 40 degrees c. the gene lies in close proximity to another family member (trpv1) gene on chromosome 17, and the two encoded proteins are thought to associate with each other to form heteromeric channels.