**2. Ion Channels as Targets of GPCR Signaling in Peripheral Nociceptive Neurons**

In this section, ion channel families are described in light of their roles in nociceptive neurons. In this respect, one can discern between ion channels that are directly involved in the sensation of noxious stimuli and those that are rather responsible for the ensuing generation and propagation of action potentials. The former group comprises TRP channels, ASICs, and mechanosensitive K<sup>+</sup> and Piezo channels, whereas voltage-activated Na<sup>+</sup> and Ca2<sup>+</sup> channels as well as various types of K<sup>+</sup> channels belong to the latter. This basic characterization of each of these ion channel families is followed by a description of the mechanisms that link activation of various GPCRs to changes in functions of these ion channels.
