Why does adaptation to capsaicin (in chili peppers) require progressively higher concentrations to achieve the same perceived intensity of 'heat' over time?

💡 Explanation

Adaptation to capsaicin involves desensitization of the TRPV1 receptor, because repeated exposure causes the receptor to become less responsive to the stimulus. Therefore, a higher concentration is needed to activate the same number of receptors, rather than changes in saliva or olfactory senses.

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