Targeting Water and Ion Channels in Neural and Glial Cells: Cellular Mechanisms and Pathological Consequences

The field of cellular neuroscience continues to reveal the intricate regulation of neural and glial cell function by water and ion channels, transporters, and their associated signaling pathways. These molecular systems are fundamental for brain homeostasis, supporting neuronal excitability, regulating cell volume and metabolism, and enabling coordinated communication across neural and glial networks. Recent research highlights that alterations in the expression, localization, or activity of channels and transporters profoundly affect neuronal and glial physiology. Disruption of water and ion channel function, whether through genetic mutation, injury, or disease, has been linked to a diverse array of neuropathologies. In particular, dysregulated water and ion homeostasis contributes to synaptic failure and network instability, features implicated in brain tumors, neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. Importantly, cutting-edge pharmacological approaches now target these channels to modulate neural and glial activity, offering new therapeutic possibilities. Sophisticated imaging, biophysical, and computational technologies empower us to dissect cell behavior at high resolution, supporting drug discovery and mechanistic understanding within the context of the nervous system.This Research Topic aims to advance understanding of how water and ion channels and transporters influence neural and glial cell function in both healthy and diseased states. Our objective is to uncover new mechanistic insights, highlight innovative pharmacological approaches, and encourage research that leverages advanced technologies to study or modulate these key molecular systems.The scope of this Research Topic is confined to neurons and glial cells, focusing on mechanistic, functional, and therapeutic aspects of their water and ion channels and transporters. To further knowledge in this area, we welcome contributions addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:• Roles of water and ion channels in cellular migration, synaptic activity, network coordination, and brain plasticity• Regulatory pathways controlling channel and transporter activity in neural and glial cells• Channelopathies and water channel dysregulation in glial dysfunction and neuropathology• Advanced imaging, electrophysiological, and computational methods for probing channel and transporter function• Mechanisms and specificity of pharmacological interventions targeting water and ion channels• Translational and methodological innovations in modulating channels and transporters Topic editors: Barbara Barile, Giorgia Conte, Kate Molloy O'Neill, Elena Conte Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/86159/targeting-water-and-ion-channels-in-neural-and-glial-cells-cellular-mechanisms-and-pathological-consequences