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Ion channels are key elements in the control of membrane physiology while ionic fluxes assure the electrical signal propagation across and between healthy cells and neurons. Pathophysiology of ion channels may originate from either mutations of gene encoding components of the channel structure (channelopathy) or secondary dysfunctions: both conditions affect the intrinsic excitability of the cell leading to pathological signs of diseases. Altered membrane excitability is due to disfunction of molecular and/or functional features of ion channels. In several diseases, the pathogenic role of ion channels has been widely demonstrated either for channelopathies or secondary dysfunction. 
The aim of the school is to provide a research update on the biophysics of ion channels in healthy conditions, and on functional and structural altered phenotypes in ion channels pathophysiology. Multi- and inter-disciplinary lectures, combining structural, functional, pharmacological approaches, including clinical and drug screening/targeting ones, will be delivered. World leading companies will provide details and access to unique state of the art of instrumentation.
For applicants, poster and flash presentation sessions will be scheduled in the final program.

The school will address the following main topics:

Emerging methods to study ion channels

Structure of ion channels

Physiological role (conventional and unconventional) of ion channels

Pathophysiology of ion channels

Therapeutic targeting of ion channels