This book is built around ion channel research and, more specifically, ion channels as important therapeutic drug targets. Under the editorial leadership of Gary Stephens in academic research and Edward Stevens from industry, the aim is to bring these strands together to provide a cutting-edge translational reference on ion channel drug discovery.  Exploiting our knowledge of ion channel structure and function has clear current and future potential to intervene and correct the pathophysiology associated with debilitating conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cystic fibrosis, pain, epilepsy, and neurodegenerative disorders. Individual chapters have a disease focus, also providing a “case study story� that will also appeal to a clinical audience, while background information on a given ion channel is presented to provide a solid reference for undergraduate and postgraduate teaching.