title: Immunopharmacology: utilizing antibodies as ion channel modulators.
abstract: Development of the patch clamp technique by the Nobel Prize winners Bert Sakmann and Erwin Neher led to huge advances in ion channel research. Their work laid the foundations and revolutionized electrophysiological studies of cells and ion channels. These ion channels underlie many basic cellular physiological processes and, therefore, are key therapeutic targets for pharmaceutical companies. However, current pharmacological strategies are hampered by the lack of specific ion channel blockers. Intense research and development programs are now actively employing antibodies to target ion channels in various formats. This review discusses the use of ion channel antibodies and their associated small molecules as pharmacological tools, termed immunopharmacology. In addition, we will review some recent studies looking into clinical applications of immunopharmacology and intrabodies.
authors: Division of Cardiovascular and Neuronal Remodelling, Leeds Institute of Genetics, Health and Therapeutics, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK. m.l.dallas@leeds.ac.uk
authors: Mark L
authors: ML
authors: Dallas
authors: Susan A
authors: SA
authors: Deuchars
authors: Jim
authors: J
authors: Deuchars