Hormones and the Regulation of Neuronal Voltage-Sensing Ion Channels

The transductional regulation of ion channel activity is a prominent mechanism by which hormone signals influence the neuronal communication and circuit function of the mammalian central nervous system. Hormone-induced changes in the activity of these electrogenic proteins permits the rapid regulation of intrinsic neuronal excitability and the resultant reconfiguration of circuit outputs. Here, we detail the structural and functional characteristics of the principle members of the voltage-sensing ion channel superfamily and—using examples of both peripherally and centrally synthesized hormones—explore how hormonal neuromodulation of these proteins allows circuits to adopt state-dependent processing rules that generate and maintain the responsorial flexibility required for the successful management of adaptive behaviors.