Ca²⁺- and Voltage-Activated K⁺ (BK) Channels in the Nervous System: One Gene, a Myriad of Physiological Functions.

ABSTRACT: BK channels are large conductance potassium channels characterized by four pore-forming α subunits, often co-assembled with auxiliary β and γ subunits to regulate Ca²⁺ sensitivity, voltage dependence and gating properties. BK channels are abundantly expressed throughout the brain and in different compartments within a single neuron, including axons, synaptic terminals, dendritic arbors, and spines. Their activation produces a massive efflux of K⁺ ions that hyperpolarizes the cellular membrane. Together with their ability to detect changes in intracellular Ca²⁺ concentration, BK channels control neuronal excitability and synaptic communication through diverse mechanisms. Moreover, increasing evidence indicates that dysfunction of BK channel-mediated effects

SUBMITTER: Ancaten-Gonzalez C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9967218 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature