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Functional analysis of an archaebacterial voltage-dependent K+ channel

Author

Listed:
  • Vanessa Ruta

    (Rockefeller University)

  • Youxing Jiang

    (Rockefeller University)

  • Alice Lee

    (Rockefeller University)

  • Jiayun Chen

    (Rockefeller University)

  • Roderick MacKinnon

    (Rockefeller University)

Abstract

All living organisms use ion channels to regulate the transport of ions across cellular membranes1. Certain ion channels are classed as voltage-dependent because they have a voltage-sensing structure that induces their pores to open in response to changes in the cell membrane voltage. Until recently, the voltage-dependent K+, Ca2+ and Na+ channels were regarded as a unique development of eukaryotic cells, adapted to accomplish specialized electrical signalling, as exemplified in neurons. Here we present the functional characterization of a voltage-dependent K+ (KV) channel from a hyperthermophilic archaebacterium from an oceanic thermal vent. This channel possesses all the functional attributes of classical neuronal KV channels. The conservation of function reflects structural conservation in the voltage sensor as revealed by specific, high-affinity interactions with tarantula venom toxins, which evolved to inhibit eukaryotic KV channels.

Suggested Citation

  • Vanessa Ruta & Youxing Jiang & Alice Lee & Jiayun Chen & Roderick MacKinnon, 2003. "Functional analysis of an archaebacterial voltage-dependent K+ channel," Nature, Nature, vol. 422(6928), pages 180-185, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:nature:v:422:y:2003:i:6928:d:10.1038_nature01473
    DOI: 10.1038/nature01473
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