Physiology and Pathology of Channels in the Nervous System

Single membrane channels are created through combination of two distinct membrane protein families, pannexins and connexins. These channels function as aqueous pores absorbent to small molecules and ions, to permit the diffusional interchange between the intracellular and extracellular environments. Ion fluxes across the plasma membrane in all mammalian cells are controlled by these specific membrane proteins. The channels create functional oligomeric complexes by interacting with ancillary proteins that contribute to health maintenance and cellular homeostasis. Membrane channels having varied ion selectivity modulate membrane excitability and potential. The formation of action potential triggers muscle contraction, among other cellular functions. These proteins are targets of many drugs ranging from antiepileptics to analgesics because of their role in the pathophysiology of numerous human diseases. Thus, ion channel dysfunction causes the onset of a variety of human diseases known as channelopathies, such as metabolic, cardiovascular, neural and autoimmune diseases. This book aims to shed light on the physiology and pathology of channels in the nervous system. It presents researches and studies performed by experts across the globe. This book will serve as a reference to a broad spectrum of readers.