Ion Channels and Transporters as Drug Targets in Immune Disorders

Ion channels and transporters are membrane proteins that control a variety of functions in immune cells. This includes orchestrating intracellular calcium flux to gene transcription and execution of effector functions such as cytotoxicity in immune cells such as cytotoxic T lymphocytes and NK cells. Mutations and defective function of ion channels have been reported to contribute to reduced immune surveillance in cancer and distinct phenotypes of immunodeficiency in autoimmune disorders. There is growing evidence suggesting that due to technological advances and increased understanding of the biophysics of ion channels, their structure-function relationships and role in disease biology makes them an attractive target for new drug discovery. Targeting ion channel networks in immune cells is a promising approach to develop novel therapies for immune disorders, and in particular immuno-oncology. However, relatively little is known about the presence of various channel subtypes and their function in the immune system, and identifying the molecular characteristics of ion channels and transporters in immune cells and their pharmacological validation using in vitro and preclinical models of immune disorders is an unmet need in small molecule drug discovery scenario.

We encourage submissions of Original Research, Reviews, Mini-reviews, Perspectives, and Clinical Studies addressing ion channels, transporters and immunity. Sub-topics may include but are not limited to:

• Ion channel/transporter physiology and pathology in immune cells in the context of disease

• The exploration of immune cell ion channel-/transporter-linked signaling mechanisms

• New or existing treatment modalities including small molecules, biologics, traditional
medicines targeting ion channels and transporters in immune disorders

• Intracellular ion channels such as Gap junctions related to connexin proteins and their role in immunity and tumor immunology

• New drug delivery systems targeting specific subtypes or selective ion channels/transporters in immune cells using nanoparticles, liposomes etc.

All manuscripts relating to traditional medicine will need to fully comply with the Four Pillars of Best Practice in Ethnopharmacology (you can freely download more information on this here. )