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    Science. 2006 Oct 27;314(5799):615-20.

    BKCa-Cav channel complexes mediate rapid and localized Ca2+-activated K+ signaling.

    Source

    Institute of Physiology, University of Freiburg, Hermann-Herder-Strasse 7, 79104 Freiburg, Germany.

    Abstract

    Large-conductance calcium- and voltage-activated potassium channels (BKCa) are dually activated by membrane depolarization and elevation of cytosolic calcium ions (Ca2+). Under normal cellular conditions, BKCa channel activation requires Ca2+ concentrations that typically occur in close proximity to Ca2+ sources. We show that BKCa channels affinity-purified from rat brain are assembled into macromolecular complexes with the voltage-gated calcium channels Cav1.2 (L-type), Cav2.1 (P/Q-type), and Cav2.2 (N-type). Heterologously expressed BKCa-Cav complexes reconstitute a functional "Ca2+ nanodomain" where Ca2+ influx through the Cav channel activates BKCa in the physiological voltage range with submillisecond kinetics. Complex formation with distinct Cav channels enables BKCa-mediated membrane hyperpolarization that controls neuronal firing pattern and release of hormones and transmitters in the central nervous system.

    PMID:
    17068255
    [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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