Ion transport across the relatively impermeable lipid bilayer of the cell membrane is accomplished via membrane proteins known as ion channels
Sigma-RBI has released its Ion Channels brochure, providings an overview of the two main categories of ion channels: voltage-gated and ligand-gated.
The structure, function and role in disease of over a dozen types of ion channels are covered in text, charts and graphics.
Over 600 Sigma-Aldrich products are highlighted, including antibodies and modulators for potassium, GABA, P2X, chloride, sodium, glutamate, nicotinic, calcium and water ion channels.
"This brochure is an invaluable tool for anyone researching the role of ion channels in disease," said Lisa Prostak, product manager, neuroscience.
"The technical information is based on the most current research available, and the Sigma-Aldrich product list the most comprehensive in the ion channel area".
Ion transport across the relatively impermeable lipid bilayer of the cell membrane is accomplished via membrane proteins known as ion channels.
Ion channels are gated pores that open and close in response to regulators such as chemical ligands or changes in membrane voltage gradients.
Ion channels are found in the membranes of virtually all types of plant, animal and bacterial cells.
They play an important role in a wide variety of biological processes such as nerve and muscle excitation, hormone secretion, learning and memory, cell proliferation, sensory transduction, the control of salt and water balance and blood pressure regulation.
Defects in channel function can have profound effects on an organism, causing a variety of conditions such as muscle myotonias, infertility, kidney and liver disfunctions, deafness and heart disfunction.
