Evidence for cooperative interactions in potassium channel gating

Article Abstract:

The gating of the potassium ion channels (K+-channels) occurs cooperatively between the different subunits instead of separately. This was determined by constructing complementary DNA for the four subunits and specifying the subunit stoichiometry on a single polypeptide chain. The gating of heterotetramers composed of combinations of subunits indicated that the subunits open up together rather than independently. Nonindependent gating agrees with what is known about K+-channel kinetics.

User Contributions:

Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:

Comment:  (50-4000 characters)

Name:

E-mail:

Security Code:

Potassium channel stimulation by natriuretic peptides through cGMP-dependent dephosphorylation

Article Abstract:

Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) uses protein dephosphorylation to initiate calcium- and voltage-activated potassium channel (BK) activity in GH4C1 cells. In addition, ANP differs from another natriuretic peptide, somatostatin, by requiring cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) and cGMP-dependent protein kinase activity before BK can start to function. Hence ANP regulates electrophysiology by limiting calcium channels in favor of BK.

User Contributions:

Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:

Comment:  (50-4000 characters)

Name:

E-mail:

Security Code:

Fifty years of inactivation

Article Abstract:

New research, revealing the events involved in the closure of potassium channels, known as inactivation, is discussed.

User Contributions:

Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:

Comment:  (50-4000 characters)

Name:

E-mail:

Security Code: