Voltage-Gated Ion Channels

Ion channels are membrane proteins that selectively allow the permeation of ions into and out of cells (Fig.1a ###image messes with formatting). Some channels have evolved to also sense changes in the electrical potential across a membrane. A potential above a certain voltage will trigger the opening of these ion-conducting pores, releasing large stores of ions across the membrane. These voltage-gated ion channels allow for the generation of electrical stimuli (the firing of neurons via the action potential; Fig.1b###) that can travel long distances in the body, enabling functions such as heartbeat, sensation, muscle contraction, hormonal activity, fluid secretion, immune response and, of course, brain activity. Ion channel drugs are used to treat major cardiovascular, neurological, muscular, metabolic, and respiratory conditions. In particular, sodium channel drugs have the remarkable ability to target specific cells to control sensory or motor functions, without threatening vital processes. This selectivity allows for uses as local anaesthetic, analgesic, anti-arrhythmic and anti-epileptic drugs. …show more content…
spiders, scorpions, snakes, fish and cone snails) and plants express venoms for the purpose of defence or to capture prey, requiring a rapid and destructive influence on the nervous system. These toxins are promising candidates to treat a range of disorders. An area of primary focus is in the treatment of pain, for which there is a pressing need for new analgesics with improved efficacy and reduced side effects[1-3]. The ability to inhibit channels in pain-signalling neurons, without blocking channels in sensory neurons, skeletal muscle, the heart and central nervous system, will allow for new therapeutics for crippling disorders such as chronic