Counting membrane-embedded KCNE beta-subunits in functioning K+ channel complexes.

ABSTRACT: Ion channels are multisubunit proteins responsible for the generation and propagation of action potentials in nerve, skeletal muscle, and heart as well as maintaining salt and water homeostasis in epithelium. The subunit composition and stoichiometry of these membrane protein complexes underlies their physiological function, as different cells pair ion-conducting alpha-subunits with specific regulatory beta-subunits to produce complexes with diverse ion-conducting and gating properties. However, determining the number of alpha- and beta-subunits in functioning ion channel complexes is challenging and often fraught with contradictory results. Here we describe the synthesis of a chemically releasable, irreversible K(+) channel inhibitor and its iterative application to tally the number of be

SUBMITTER: Morin TJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2234169 | biostudies-literature | 2008 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature