Ion channels and actin: A tale of two friends

An increasing number of studies highlight ion channels as multifunctional proteins involved in diverse cellular processes, including proliferation, differentiation, adhesion, migration, morphology, and programmed cell death (apoptosis). Given these broad roles, it is not surprising that ion channels interact closely with actin-a ubiquitous cytoskeletal component that participates in a vast array of biological functions. Ion channels depend on the actin cytoskeleton for essential activities such as trafficking to and from the plasma membrane. Conversely, actin dynamics are often modulated by ion channels during various cellular events. In this review, we provide an overview of the field and discuss key examples that reveal emerging patterns in the bidirectional interactions between ion channels and the actin cytoskeleton.