Electroimmunology: the physiologic role of ion channels in the immune system

The recent development of the gigaohm seal voltage clamp technique has provided an approach to study individual cells of the immune system. Six distinct types of ion channels, most resembling channels found in nerve and muscle, have been identified in immune cells. Some of these channels appear to play important roles in various aspects of immune function. This article summarizes recent studies on ion channels in lymphocytes and macrophages.