Chloride Movements Across Cellular Membranes

All living cells are surrounded by a lipidic membrane that isolates them from the often harsh environment. However, to take up nutrients, to excrete waste, and to communicate among each other, Nature has invented an incredibly diverse set of transmembrane transport proteins. Specialized transporters exist to shuttle electrically charged ions, positive cations like sodium or negative anions like chloride, across the membrane. In the recent years, tremendous progress has been made in the field of chloride transport. The present book presents the state of the art of this rapidly expanding and interest-gaining field of membrane transport. It is addressed at a broad medically, physiologically, biologically, and biophysically interested readership.

• Describes the state-of-the-art in anion transport research
• Written by leaders in the field
• Presents a timely discussion of this rapidly emerging and expanding field

Living cells are surrounded by a lipidic membrane that protects them from an often harsh external environment. Transmembrane transport proteins provide cells with the means to obtain nutrients, excrete waste, and communicate with other cells. These transporters specialize in shuttling electrically charged ions, such as sodium (positive cations) and chloride (negative anions), across the membrane. In the recent years, tremendous progress has been made in the field of chloride transport. This volume discusses the importance of newly discovered genes and unexpected physiological functions. The role of anion transporters and channels in human health and disease is underscored by the fact that many genetic disorders are caused by mutations in the genes coding for them. The expertly authored chapters present the state of the art in this rapidly expanding field of membrane transport.
This book is written for a wide readership of neuroscientists, membrane biophysicists, structural biologists, and biomedical researchers in a broad range of interests.