Your browser version may not work well with NCBI's Web applications. More information here...
1: Neuron. 2001 Oct 11;32(1):13-23.Click here to read Links

Identification of a novel tetramerization domain in large conductance K(ca) channels.

Quirk JC, Reinhart PH.

Department of Neurobiology, Duke University Medical Center, P.O. Box 3209, Durham, NC 27710, USA.

More than 50 genes are known to encode K(+) channel monomers and can coassemble to form hetero-tetrameric K(+) channels. However, only a subset of possible monomer combinations come together to form functional ion channels. The assembly and tetramerization of appropriate channel monomers is mediated by association domains (ADs). To identify such domains in human large-conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels (hSlo1), we screened hSlo1 domains for self-association using yeast two-hybrid assays. Putative ADs were subjected to functional assays in Xenopus oocytes and further characterized by coprecipitation, native gel electrophoresis, and sucrose density gradient centrifugation assays. This led to the identification of a single intracellular association domain localized near the channel pore and required for channel function. We conclude that this novel tetramerization domain, referred to as BK-T1, promotes the assembly of hSlo1 monomers into functional K(Ca) channels.

PMID: 11604135 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Patient Drug Information

  • Potassium (Glu-K® , K+ 10® , K+ 8® , ...)

    Potassium is essential for the proper functioning of the heart, kidneys, muscles, nerves, and digestive system. Usually the food you eat supplies all of the potassium you need. However, certain diseases (e.g., kidney dis...

  • Source: AHFS Consumer Medication Information