Ion channels of the lung and their role in disease pathogenesis

Abstract

Maintenance of normal epithelial ion and water transport in the lungs includes providing a thin layer of surface liquid that coats the conducting airways. This airway surface liquid is critical for normal lung function in a number of ways but, perhaps most importantly, is required for normal mucociliary clearance and bacterial removal. Preservation of the appropriate level of hydration, pH, and viscosity for the airway surface liquid requires the proper regulation and function of a battery of different types of ion channels and transporters. Here we discuss how alterations in ion channel/transporter function often lead to lung pathologies.

Measurement of Multi Ion Transport through Human Bronchial Epithelial Cell Line Provides an Insight into the Mechanism of Defective Water Transport in Cystic Fibrosis

“…Epithelial cells are polarized, i.e., there are different transporting molecules on both the apical and basolateral surfaces of the epithelial cells. There is a considerable number of different ion channels, transporters and pumps molecules that are present in epithelial cell membranes [1][2][3][4][5][6][7].…”

Similarities between the effect of SARS-CoV-2 and HCV on the cellular level, and the possible role of ion channels in COVID19 progression: a review of potential targets for diagnosis and treatment

“…The main viroporins of HCV and SARS-CoV have been documented to be the p7 and the E proteins, respectively, which have been found to be structurally similar [ 32 ]. The operational significance of ion channels is underscored by the recognition that dysfunctional epithelial ion transport systems are linked to various human pathologies/diseases such as CF, COPD, pulmonary edema and chronic bronchitis [ 38 ]. These human pathologies occur because impairment of epithelial ion transport alters the contents or fluid composition of the ion channels.…”

“…Such low levels of Cl − in the body might impair the functioning of epithelial Cl − and sodium channel in the pulmonary system. For example, individuals with CF have a missing Cl − conductance [ 38 ]. Consequently, the impairment of these channels may impact the environment in, and viral role of, the lungs.…”

Acids Can Promote the Onset and Multimorbidity of Allergic and Nonallergic Airway Diseases

“…There are numerous parallel ways for the surface cells of the respiratory airways to acidify the ASL. In addition to the above-mentioned degranulation, which involves the secretion of granules or acid vesicles, cells can use acid extruders as channels, transporters and pumps to transfer H + externally 121,[129][130][131][132][133] . Also the Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) plays an important role in the acidification of the ASL 105,134 .…”