Main description:

This book gathers relatively recent and significant topics in the field of ion channel research. Ion channels form the molecular basis for membrane excitability in cells present in the cardiovascular and nervous systems. In many non-excitable cells, ion channels contribute to diverse physiological functions, including the secretion of signaling compounds like hormones and insulin, cell volume regulation, intracellular signaling, especially Ca2+ signaling, etc. Many human diseases have been attributed to abnormal channel functions and defective membrane expression of channel proteins. On the other hand, ion channels are excellent models for studying protein biophysics, especially the allosteric regulation of protein function by miscellaneous stimuli. Therefore, research on ion channels carries significant meaning for the understanding of basic protein biophysics and diverse physiological functions. Such vital information also assists in developing novel and effective treatments for related human diseases. This book provides graduates and scientists in both basic and clinical levels a comprehensive understanding of cutting-edge advances and a useful and stimulating platform for tackling their own questions about ion channels.

Contents:

Advancing ion channel research with automated patch clamp (APC) electrophysiology platforms.- Methods & Challenges to Study Mechanosensitive Ion Channels.- The Polysite Pharmacology of TREK K2P channels.- Physiological functions, biophysical properties and regulation of KCNQ1 (KV7.1) potassium channels.- Context matters - Calcium channel splice variants and their effects in brain and cardiovascular function.- Structure-function of TMEM16 ion channels and lipid scramblases.- Distribution and Assembly of TRP Ion Channels.- Regulation of Ion Channel Function by Gas Molecules.- DEG/ENaC ion channels in the function of the nervous system: from worm to man.- Glial chloride channels in the function of the nervous system across species.- Physiological and pathological relevance of selective and non-selective Ca2+ channels in skeletal and cardiac muscle.- Lysosomal TRPML1 Channel: Implications in Cardiovascular and Kidney Diseases.- Store-Operated Calcium Entry in the Cardiovascular System.- The role of thermosensitive ion channels in mammalian thermoregulation.- Mechanotransduction ion channels in hearing and touch.- The functional properties, physiological roles, channelopathy and pharmacological characteristics of the Slack (KCNT1) channel.- Ion Channels in Anesthesiology.