Inflammation is the primary response of the immune system to infection or tissue injury. Ion channels in different immune cells are very important for the inflammatory processes. In this context, connexin (Cxs) and pannexins (Panx) channels and P2 receptors have central roles in the initiation and/or progression of inflammation in different tissues. Thus, cellular responses during inflammation can be initiated and/or enhanced by the opening of Cx and/or Panx channels, which in turn allow the release of ATP and other metabolites to the extracellular media. These can act as danger signals propagating the original inflammatory insult. Extracellular ATP can activate important intracellular signaling pathways through the activation of P2 receptors. However, it is yet not completely clear how these channels become active in these processes, how these channels can crosstalk, and how their pharmacological modulation may have a potential advantageous or beneficial therapeutic effect. We invite researchers to contribute with original as well as review articles that will help to understand the roles of ion channels in inflammation, in particular (but not exclusively) Cxs, Panx, and P2 receptors. We encourage authors to focus their contributions to the title of this special issue: what is known and what is next. Authors are encouraged to contact Guest Editors to discuss their contribution contents and plan prior to preparation or submission.

Potential topics include, but are not limited to:

• Molecular mechanisms describing ion channel activation during inflammation
• The importance of ion channel and P2 receptor activation in cell function during inflammation
• The interplay of ion channels in inflammatory processes
• The importance of extracellular ATP signaling in inflammation
• Pharmacological modulation of ion channels in inflammation
• New tools to influence ion channel activation