A lipid plug affects K_2P6.1(TWIK-2) function.

ABSTRACT: Lipids are integral to ion channel function yet delineating mechanisms by which they affect function remains challenging. Within the K_2P family of leak potassium channels^1-3, observation of tubular densities interpreted as alkyl chains occupying lateral fenestrations linking the pore and bilayer^4-8 raised the possibility that lipid access from the bilayer acts as a regulatory mechanism^4-7. Here, we present cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of the human leak potassium channel K_2P6.1 (TWIK2)^9-11 and mutants in nanodisc and detergent environments that reveal an unusual conformation in the first selectivity filter (SF1) and a pair of two-chain lipids within the channel cavity (denoted the 'lipid plug'). The chains of

SUBMITTER: Mondal A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12259115 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature