Ligand-gated ion Channels (LGICs), a.k.a ionotropic receptors, are a type of protein found in cell membranes, vital for rapid signaling in various physiological processes. These channels operate like gatekeepers, controlling the flow of ions (such as calcium, sodium, and potassium) into or out of cells. They are triggered (opened or closed) by specific signaling molecules known as ligands (like neurotransmitters), which bind to the channel. This binding changes the channel’s shape, allowing ions to pass through, ultimately influencing cell activity. LGICs play a crucial role in nervous system functioning, including brain processing and muscle contraction, making them key targets in drug development for neurological and muscular disorders.
