Ion channels are membrane-spanning proteins that allow both anions and cations to pass through bio-membranes in a rapid and energetically-favorable manner that is essential for numerous cellular functions. Members of this large super-family are expressed on the plasma membrane and cellular organelles highlighting their important physiological functions.
Many researchers study the structure-function relationship of ion channels and our understanding of ion channel function in health and disease has advanced tremendously through the study of ion channel mutations and so-called channelopathies. Ion channels accordingly constituted promising drug targets and roughly 18% of FAD-approved drugs for human target ion channels.
This Research Topic aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the diverse physiological roles of ion channels in health and their relevance in pathophysiological processes and as potential therapeutic targets. The Research Topic will accept structure-function studies of the in vitro and in vivo role of ion channels, studies focused on ion channel trafficking and expression, as well as pharmacological investigations ranging from molecular modeling and medicinal chemistry to proof-of-concept animal studies aiming towards translational applications. We hope that interested investigators will share their valuable research on ion channels to exploit the tremendous potential of ion channels as future drug targets.
Ion channels are membrane-spanning proteins that allow both anions and cations to pass through bio-membranes in a rapid and energetically-favorable manner that is essential for numerous cellular functions. Members of this large super-family are expressed on the plasma membrane and cellular organelles highlighting their important physiological functions.
Many researchers study the structure-function relationship of ion channels and our understanding of ion channel function in health and disease has advanced tremendously through the study of ion channel mutations and so-called channelopathies. Ion channels accordingly constituted promising drug targets and roughly 18% of FAD-approved drugs for human target ion channels.
This Research Topic aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the diverse physiological roles of ion channels in health and their relevance in pathophysiological processes and as potential therapeutic targets. The Research Topic will accept structure-function studies of the in vitro and in vivo role of ion channels, studies focused on ion channel trafficking and expression, as well as pharmacological investigations ranging from molecular modeling and medicinal chemistry to proof-of-concept animal studies aiming towards translational applications. We hope that interested investigators will share their valuable research on ion channels to exploit the tremendous potential of ion channels as future drug targets.