Channel replacement therapy

Antibiotic activity and channel replacement therapies are two areas where synthetic ion transport systems show potential. Other applications include drug delivery, chemical sensing, cell signaling, organocatalysis, and material science. The examples of synthetic ion transporters reviewed provide an overview of the successful designs and combinations of ion receptor interactions used to facilitate transmembrane transport. In this regard, important advances have been made in the last decade. There is little doubt that real-world application of these systems will come in the near future. 

The need for fluid replacement is obvious. Oral rehydration is preferred over intravenous administration of fluids and electrolytes since it is noninvasive. In many third world countries, it is the only therapy available in remote areas. The rehydration formula includes 50-80 g/L rice (or other starch), 3.5 g/L sodium chloride, 2.5 g/L sodium bicarbonate, and 1.5 g/L potassium chloride. Oral rehydration takes advantage of the cotransport of Na and glucose across the cells lining the intestine. Thus, the channel protein brings glucose into the cells, and Na+ is carried along. Movement of these materials into the cells will help alleviate the osmotic imbalance, reduce the diarrhea, and correct the fluid and electrolyte imbalance. 

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