Membrane transporters are integral membrane proteins that are involved in the movement of molecules across cell membranes playing a critical role in maintaining cellular homeostasis by regulating the intracellular concentration of different compounds. They are also involved in physiological and pathological processes, such as neurotransmission, drug absorption and disposition, and cancer drug resistance.
Ion channels are integral membrane proteins that form a pore in the cell membrane, allowing the movement of ions across the membrane. They are strictly regulated to ensure that the movement of ions across the cell membrane is precisely controlled.