Primers on molecular pathways - ion channels: key regulators of pancreatic physiology.
Ion transport across the cellular plasma membrane is important in almost every physiological process. This phenomenon is driven by the coordinated action of carriers, pumps and channels, which move ions in and out the cells and between different organelles. Ion channels are transmembrane proteins that provide a continuous aqueous pore through which ions can selectively move. The interest in these molecules has increased due to the recognition of diverse pathologies related with mutations in genes encoding these transmembrane proteins, now known as channelopathies. Ion channels play a variety of functions in the pancreas. Here, we briefly describe ion transport characteristics as well as their role in pancreas physiology and pathophysiology.
Banales
Jesús M
JM
Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Division of Gene Therapy and Hepatology, School of Medicine and CIMA of the University of Navarra, and Ciberehd, Pamplona, Spain.
Gradilone
Sergio A
SA
D001639:Bicarbonates / Q000378:metabolism; D019005:Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D007473:Ion Channels / Q000502:physiology*; D010179:Pancreas / Q000502:physiology* / Q000503:physiopathology
D001639:Bicarbonates; D007473:Ion Channels; D019005:Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator