Ion Channels in Medicine

Abstract

Our current understanding of ion channels has been made possible by techniques such as electrophysiology and molecular biology, but genetics‐based approaches inspired by associated diseases have pointed to regions of functional significance on the ion channels. The ion channelopathies are caused by mutations of corresponding genes or autoantibodies. Although the channels form a highly diverse group (cation, anion, voltage‐gated, ligand‐gated) and are expressed in excitable and nonexcitable tissues, underlying mutations show recurrent patterns within functionally essential protein parts and lead to common clinical features and almost predictable mechanisms of pathogenesis. This knowledge will prove useful for development of treatment strategies for individuals with various genetic backgrounds and will contribute to both the effectiveness and safety of drugs in the future.