Ion channels in immune cell biology: from molecular mechanisms to therapeutic applications

Ion channels are a major class of proteins that regulate cellular functions, and while they are associated with the plasma membrane, they also occur in intracellular membranes. Traditionally, ion channel research has focused on excitable cells, particularly within the nervous and cardiovascular systems. However, growing evidence indicates a role for ion channels in immune cells. Ion channels, be they on the cellular or intracellular membranes, add an additional layer of signaling complexity to immune cell signaling and shape immune cell function. Importantly, ion channels may represent novel therapeutic targets for a variety of diseases in which the immune system is involved.Traditionally, ion channel research and electrophysiology have typically not been a major subject area within immunology, and research networks between the two areas have been rather limited. However, research over the last decade has begun to highlight that ion channels do play a significant role within cells of the immune system:- It is now recognized that cells of the adaptive and innate immune system express a variety of ion channels, and heterogeneity seen in these cells is reflected in changes in ion channel expression/function.- Ion channels located within cell organelle membranes, e.g., mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, lysosomes, and the nuclear membrane, play significant roles in immune cell biology.- Definition of ion channels that respond to various extracellular signals that change during immune activation and inflammation, e.g., Heat, pH, mechanical forces, and the integration of these signals with traditional/conventional cell signaling pathways in immune cells.The aim of this research topic is to highlight and inform the general immunological community of the increasing importance of ion channels within the immune system and immune-related diseases by providing a forum to publish timely research and review papers in an increasingly important scientific area. Another important goal of this research topic will be to encourage researchers in the field of ion channels to investigate immune-based systems and diseases, and drive further collaborations in this field.• Original research papers and reviews into the role of ion channels in cells of the innate and adaptive immune system and/or immunological systems/pathways. This includes ion channels within intracellular organelles.• Original research papers and reviews on interactions of ion channels and stimuli/components of the immune system. This includes stimuli that are microbial and tissue damage in origin, as well as endogenous mediators.• Original research papers and reviews investigating the potential of ion channels as therapeutic targets in immunological/inflammatory diseases, including immunological pathways in metabolic disease, neurological diseases, and cancer.• Overviews on the state of the art in areas of ion channels and electrophysiology research, which may be of particular interest to researchers in the field of immunology. This includes papers on theoretical, technical, and methodological aspects of ion channel and electrophysiological research in immune cells. Topic editors: Dean Willis, Yun Shi, Pui Man Maggie Hoi, Santiago Partida Sanchez Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/86409/ion-channels-in-immune-cell-biology-from-molecular-mechanisms-to-therapeutic-applications