Proton Channels in the Context of Human Diseases

Proton channels play an important role in many physiological processes in humans, as in all organisms, since pH determines protonation or deprotonisation state of amino acid residues, thus channel activity, enzyme kinetics, receptor-ligand interactions by changing the surface charges of molecules. These integral protein structures, which selectively transport protons through biological membranes, are very important for cell homeostasis, energy production and signal transmission. Human diseases linked to proton channels can be effectively studied using genetic model organisms, as the fundamental structure and function of these channels are conserved across species. Proton channels in humans, are an important part of many vital processes, including the regulation of pH in cellular compartments, the generation of bioelectric signals in neurons, and the immune response. Studies about proton channels conducted to date, including deviations in proton channel function have been associated with a variety of diseases, from neurodegenerative disorders to cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Valuable information about their special contributions to human physiology and pathophysiology can be obtained by deciphering their different roles in these structures. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the biological significance of proton channels by summarizing their functions and their effects on organisms, with particular emphasis on their roles in human diseases and their potential as therapeutic targets. An integrative synthesis connecting molecular mechanisms to disease-specific pathophysiology is still lacking. This review aims to address this gap by providing a comprehensive overview of the biological significance of proton channels.