Impact of Diverse Ion Channels on Regulatory T Cell Functions.

The population of regulatory T cells (Tregs) is critical for immunological self-tolerance and homeostasis. Proper ion regulation contributes to Treg lineage identity, regulation, and effector function. Identified ion channels include Ca ²⁺ release-activated Ca ²⁺ , transient receptor potential, P2X, volume-regulated anion and K ⁺ channels Kv1.3 and KCa3.1. Ion channel modulation represents a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis. This review summarizes studies with gene-targeted mice and pharmacological modulators affecting Treg number and function. Furthermore, participation of ion channels is illustrated and the power of future research possibilities is discussed.
Competing Interests: The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
(© Copyright by the Author(s). Published by Cell Physiol Biochem Press.)