The Ion Channels Involved in Oxidative Stress-Related Gastrointestinal Diseases

Abstract

The pathogenesis of various gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, including gastritis, ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and cancer, can be linked to oxidative stress. It is known that reactive species carry out a crucial role in the genesis and progression of these pathologies; however, the contribution of ionic channels in their development is still under discussion. The function of ion channels in the gastrointestinal tract influences a variety of cellular processes. Acid-base balance, mucus layer, microbiota and mucosal blood flow are only some of the essential features for maintaining the mucosal integrity of the cellular barrier in the intestine, allowing for the preservation of proper permeability and ensuring tissue homeostasis. As the functional modulation of several ion channels is altered during oxidative stress conditions associated with gastrointestinal inflammation, this review focuses on contributing new insight into the roles of and the relationship between ion channels and oxidative stress in GI diseases. The association between ion channels and oxidative stress conditions could be used in diagnostics and the development of new pharmacological treatments for major gastrointestinal diseases.

Oxidative stress and ion channels in neurodegenerative diseases

“…This can eventually affect the signaling pathways that modulate channel function, modifying gene transcription, turnover, proteasomal degradation, and trafficking ( Akbarali, 2014 ). Sensitivity to alterations in the side chains of the amino acid residues that serve as the targets for ROS/RNS is typically associated with the presence of sulfur atoms in (methionine and cysteine), aromatic rings (tryptophan, histidine, and phenylalanine), or hydroxyl groups (tyrosine), ( Annunziato et al, 2002 ; Akbarali, 2014 ; Miranda et al, 2023 ). In biological systems, there is a physiological balance between the generation of ROS and their detoxification through antioxidant scavengers, such as glutathione, catalase, and superoxide dismutase.…”

“…For example, alterations in the gating properties and ion selectivity of voltage-gated ion channels may occur. Oxidative stress can also affect ligand-gated ion channels, thereby altering their signaling pathways and sensitivity ( Miranda et al, 2023 ). Another consequence of oxidative stress on regulating intracellular Ca 2+ levels is its ability to alter the function of Ca 2+ release channels within the endoplasmic reticulum and Ca 2+ uptake channels in the cell’s plasma membrane ( Santulli et al, 2017 ).…”