Membrane Proteins and Ion Channels

Dear Colleagues,

Membrane proteins and ion channels are intricately linked as they jointly regulate the flow of ions across cell membranes, which is vital for numerous physiological or pathophysiological processes like nerve signaling, muscle contraction, and maintaining cellular homeostasis.

Ion channels, which are specialized membrane proteins, create conduits through which ions can passively traverse cell membranes. These channels are highly selective, allowing only specific ions (such as sodium, potassium, calcium, or chloride) to pass through based on factors like size, charge, and chemical properties. Ion channels can be gated, meaning their opening and closing are regulated, and they can be voltage-gated (regulated by changes in membrane potential), ligand-gated (regulated by the binding of specific molecules), or mechanically gated (regulated by physical forces).

Recent evidence underscores that changes in the function of ion channels are closely linked to many clinical conditions, such as neurological or endocrine disorders. Many established or newly developed drugs have been found to exert targeted or unintended effects on ion-channel function. For example, in addition to their suppression of the activity of sodium–glucose co-transporters, SGLT inhibitors (e.g., empagliflozin and dapagliflozin) have also recently been found to affect the amplitude and gating of voltage-gated sodium channels. In this regard, we eagerly hope that relevant scientists can provide recent related papers for potential publication in this field.

Dr. Sheng-Nan Wu
Guest Editor

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• membrane proteins
• ion channels
• cell membranes