Chronic cough affects nearly 10% people in UK. A recent study has offered the hope of developing an effective medicine for cough. Researchers have found that when a group of protein molecules on the surface of nerve cells are irritated, it leads to coughing.

The University of Hull study, led by Professor Alyn Morice, examined TRPV1, a certain protein receptor known for its ability in sensing coldness. The research team found that, when stimulated by cinnamon extract, the protein receptor produced a cough reflex. The research team cloned the receptor, so that its chemistry could be studied closely.

Professor Alyn Morice said: "The TRPA1 receptor that we have identified as a cough receptor and recently cloned is more interesting because it is set off by a much wider range of substances."

The research team is conducting large-scale patient studies, as the researchers want to identify agents to block the newly-identified receptor.

Professor Morice said it would take several years for his work to yield new drugs to block cough, even if the work proceeded well.

The main aim of the research team is not to stop the cough reflex, but to restore it to normal levels. Cough stops people from getting pneumonia.