Distinct gating mechanisms revealed by the structures of a multi-ligand gated K(+) channel.

Kong, Chunguang; Zeng, Weizhong; Ye, Sheng; Chen, Liping; Sauer, David Bryant; Lam, Yeeling; Derebe, Mehabaw Getahun; Jiang, Youxing · Elife · 2012

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

The gating ring-forming RCK domain regulates channel gating in response to various cellular chemical stimuli in eukaryotic Slo channel families and the majority of ligand-gated prokaryotic K(+) channels and transporters. Here we present structural and functional studies of a dual RCK-containing, multi-ligand gated K(+) channel from Geobacter sulfurreducens, named GsuK. We demonstrate that ADP and NAD(+) activate the GsuK channel, whereas Ca(2+) serves as an allosteric inhibitor. Multiple crystal structures elucidate the structural basis of multi-ligand gating in GsuK, and also reveal a unique ion conduction pore with segmented inner helices. Structural comparison leads us to propose a novel pore opening mechanics that is distinct from other K(+) channels.DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.00184.001.

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