Lysosomes, historically viewed as simple degradative organelles, are now recognized as pivotal signaling hubs crucial for cellular homeostasis. A growing body of evidence has highlighted the importance of lysosomal ion channels—such as TRPMLs, TPCs, and P2X4—in regulating lysosomal function, including membrane potential, pH balance, ion homeostasis, and autophagic flux. Aberrations in the function of these channels have been linked to a spectrum of human diseases, from lysosomal storage disorders and neurodegeneration to cancer, metabolic diseases, and immune dysfunction.
Despite their significance, lysosomal ion channels remain incompletely understood in both physiological contexts and disease states. With recent advances in molecular pharmacology, electrophysiology, imaging, and genetic manipulation, the field is rapidly evolving. Unraveling the molecular mechanisms governing these channels, their regulation, as well as their roles in inter-organelle communication, cellular signaling, and pathology opens promising avenues for novel therapeutic strategies.
This Research Topic aims to assemble original research articles, reviews, and perspectives exploring the structure, function, regulation, and pharmacology of lysosomal ion channels, as well as their roles in health and disease. Key themes may include, but are not limited to:
o Molecular mechanisms of ion channel function in the endolysosomal system
o Contributions of lysosomal ion channels to autophagy, metabolism, and signal transduction
o Pathophysiological implications of lysosomal ion channel dysregulation in rare and common diseases
o Development and characterization of pharmacological modulators
o Advanced methodologies for studying lysosomal ion channels and their physiological relevance
o Emerging therapeutic applications targeting lysosomal channelopathies
We welcome multidisciplinary contributions that advance our understanding of lysosomal ion channels and inspire novel approaches to disease intervention.
Article types and fees
This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:
Brief Research Report
Data Report
Editorial
FAIR² Data
FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
General Commentary
Hypothesis and Theory
Methods
Mini Review
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Article types
This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:
Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
