Ion Transporters and Channels in Cellular Pathophysiology

Ion transporters and channels mediate the transport of ions across the plasma membrane and intracellular membranes and play a crucial role in several homeostatic functions, thus assuring cell survival. Regulatory proteins modulate their electrophysiological characteristics, cellular localization, membrane trafficking, and drug sensitivity, thus contributing to their functional diversity as well as cell-specific responses. In addition, ion transport is involved in diverse cellular signaling pathways and functions, including neuronal activity, muscle contraction, cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, gene expression and transcription. In this regard, the development of drugs having ion channels as target molecules is advancing, and ion channel research has recently shown wide development from basic science to applied research.

Dysfunction or deregulation of ion transport may have dramatic consequences for cellular and tissue functions, and eventually for human health. Thus, a precise understanding of the mecha-nisms of physiological regulation and pathological dysregulation of ion transport is essential to open new avenues in therapy, and drug design. This Special Issue will focus on the molecular mechanisms of ion transport regulation and will specifically deal with pathophysiological dysregulation, and its consequences for cell and tissue function.

This Research Topic welcomes manuscripts collecting data from both cell and animal models (original papers, as well as comprehensive reviews) providing or summarizing new knowledge on various aspects of ion transporters and channels, including intracellular signaling. Although studies on the physiological and pathophysiological role of ion transport are encouraged, pharmacological, biochemical, and biophysical studies will be also considered.