Inactivation properties of voltage-gated K+ channels altered by presence of beta-subunit.

Rettig, J; Heinemann, S H; Wunder, F; Lorra, C; Parcej, D N; Dolly, J O; Pongs, O · Nature · 1994

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Structural and functional diversity of voltage-gated Kv1-type potassium channels in rat brain is enhanced by the association of two different types of subunits, the membrane-bound, poreforming alpha-subunits and a peripheral beta-subunit. We have cloned a beta-subunit (Kv beta 1) that is specifically expressed in the rat nervous system. Association of Kv beta 1 with alpha-subunits confers rapid A-type inactivation on non-inactivating Kv1 channels (delayed rectifiers) in expression systems in vitro. This effect is mediated by an inactivating ball domain in the Kv beta 1 amino terminus.

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