Illustration of the US physiologist David Julius (born 1955). Julius is best known for his work on ion channels, particularly temperature-sensitive ion channels that also function in the sensation of pain. He discovered an ion channel, named TRPV1, in the skin that responded to capsaicin, the molecule in chili peppers that causes a burning sensation. He showed that this receptor also detected noxious heat. Julius also discovered TRPM8, a cold-sensitive ion channel that responds to menthol, and worked on the structures and mechanisms of other TRP (transient receptor potential) channels. His insights into how the body experiences pain have paved the way for the development of new analgesic (painkilling) drugs. Julius was awarded a share of the 2021 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for this work along with Ardem Patapoutian.