Tuning the gate and the gear: The LRRC26 ( γ 1 ) subunit modulates intrinsic gating and voltage-sensor coupling of the BK channel.

ABSTRACT: Association of auxiliary subunits ( β1-4 and γ1-4 ) with the pore-forming α subunit of the calcium-and voltage-activated potassium (BK) channel provides functional diversity. γ1 promotes a significant leftward shift of the voltage activation curve, ensuring the adequate functioning of secretory glands, allowing the BK channel to release K+ at the cell's resting Ca2+ concentration. Given its physiological importance, it is crucial to elucidate the mechanisms of γ1 action. However, structural and functional studies have yielded conflicting conclusions regarding the modulation of BK channels by γ1 . Here, using macroscopic, single-channel, and gating current measurements, we demonstrate that at zero mV γ1 increases 92-fold the equilibrium constant that defines the closed-open transition by de

SUBMITTER: Echeverria F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12424821 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature