The Open Biology Journal
2011, 04 : 27-34Published online 2011 January 31. DOI: 10.2174/1874196701104010027
Publisher ID: TOBIOJ-4-27
RESEARCH ARTICLE
Cation Channels in Erythrocytes - Historical and Future Perspective
Institute for Molecular Cell Biology, Medical Faculty, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg/Saar, Germany.
* Address correspondence to this author at the Institute for Molecular Cell Biology, Medical Faculty, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg/Saar, Germany; Tel: +49 6841 1626 103; Fax: +49 6841 1626104; E-mail: dr.lars.kaestner@uniklinikum-saarland.de
* Address correspondence to this author at the Institute for Molecular Cell Biology, Medical Faculty, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg/Saar, Germany; Tel: +49 6841 1626 103; Fax: +49 6841 1626104; E-mail: dr.lars.kaestner@uniklinikum-saarland.de
ABSTRACT
Compared to ion pumps and carriers, ion channels have been quite late recognised as individual transport identities in red blood cells. Here the transition from cell population based flux experiments to single cell based patchclamp investigations are described in detail. The present knowledge of cation channels in red blood cells from their molecular identity to their electrophysiological properties are summarised. Tendencies and novel concepts for future research concerning ion-transport across the red blood cell membrane are discussed.