Pathology and physiology of acid‑sensitive ion channels in the digestive system (Review)

Abstract

As a major proton‑gated cation channel, acid‑sensi‑ tive ion channels (ASICs) can perceive large extracellular pH changes. ASICs play an important role in the occurrence and development of diseases of various organs and tissues including in the heart, brain, and gastrointestinal tract, as well as in tumor proliferation, invasion, and metastasis in acidosis and regulation of an acidic microenvironment. The perme‑ ability of ASICs to sodium and calcium ions is the basis of their physiological and pathological roles in the body. This review summarizes the physiological and pathological mecha‑ nisms of ASICs in digestive system diseases, which plays an important role in the early diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of digestive system diseases related to ASIC expression.