Proton channels in non-phagocytic cells of the immune system

Proton channels are expressed in all the cells of the immune system to various degrees. While their function in phagocytic cells, immune cells that engulf bacteria and cell debris for clearance, has been the object of extensive research, the function of proton channels in non-phagocytic cells has remained more elusive until recently. Further studies have been supported by the discovery of the gene coding for the mammalian proton channel, HVCN1, which has prompted a new wave of research in this area. Recent findings show how proton channels regulate cell function in non-phagocytic cells of the immune system such as basophils and lymphocytes. WIREs Membr Transp Signal 2013, 2:65–73. doi: 10.1002/wmts.78 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.