The realm of ion channels and transporters is ever-expanding, with new research highlighting non-canonical roles for both the ion-conducting channels themselves and their non-conducting auxiliary subunits, moving beyond traditional plasma membrane functions. This Research Topic aims to capture these exciting, novel functions, including their critical involvement in cellular signaling, mechanotransduction, complex protein-protein interactions, metabolic regulation, and their influence on gene expression or epigenetic modulation. We eagerly invite submission of various article types, including but not limited to Original Research, Review, and Perspectives articles that shed light on the molecular mechanisms, physiological relevance, and pathophysiological impact of these unconventional functions.

We invite submissions covering a broad range of topics, including but not limited to:

1. Flux-Independent & Conformational Signaling: Mechanisms by which ion channels or their subunits act as sensors to initiate signal transduction cascades, independent of ion flow.
2. The Nuclear-Cytoplasmic Channel Axis: Studies on ion channel trafficking, regulated proteolysis, and the novel roles of channel fragments or subunits in nuclear signaling and gene expression.
3. Metabolic & Organelle Homeostasis: Novel intracellular (mitochondrial, lysosomal, or other) roles of ion channels and transporters in the lipid, and energy metabolism and in organelle function.
4. Non-Conducting & Scaffolding Functions: Molecular dissection of ion channel or auxiliary subunits that act as standalone adhesion molecules, signaling adaptors, or scaffolds.
5. Channels in Cellular Microenvironment Sensing: The role of ion channels in sensing and responding to mechanical stress, pH changes, or nutrient cues to regulate cell fate, immunity, and disease progression.

The core objective of this Research Topic is to synthesize new knowledge in ion channel and transporter research, filling the gap between basic scientific discovery and clinical utility. Our ultimate contribution will be to accelerate the development of innovative therapeutic strategies for conditions related to ion channels and transporters.

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Beyond Ion Transport – Non-Canonical Roles of Ion Channels and Transporters