A chloride channel or chlorine channel is an ion channel that mainly leads to chloride ions (Cl). Most chlorine channels are not very selective, and lead many small negative ions such as NO3 and HCO3. They are therefore also called anion channels. However, chlorine ions in most species are the most common negative ions (for example, as part of sodium chloride, the main ingredient of table salt) and therefore the most important component of the electrical flow through chloride channels.
To chloride channels, much less research has been done than for example sodium channels and potassium channels, which play prominent roles in generating an action potential. In electrophysiology, chlorine channels are especially important in stabilizing the rest potential. As a GABA receptor they play an important role in regulating nerve cell activity. They are also crucial for secretion of salt into the kidneys and mucous membranes. A mutation to the CFTR gene, which encodes a type of chlorine channel, plays a role in Tissue Mucosa (muccoviscidosis). Sources
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