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XB-ART-44594
Cell 2011 Sep 30;1471:199-208. doi: 10.1016/j.cell.2011.07.046.
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Crystal structure of the mammalian GIRK2 K+ channel and gating regulation by G proteins, PIP2, and sodium.

Whorton MR , MacKinnon R .


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G protein-gated K(+) channels (Kir3.1-Kir3.4) control electrical excitability in many different cells. Among their functions relevant to human physiology and disease, they regulate the heart rate and govern a wide range of neuronal activities. Here, we present the first crystal structures of a G protein-gated K(+) channel. By comparing the wild-type structure to that of a constitutively active mutant, we identify a global conformational change through which G proteins could open a G loop gate in the cytoplasmic domain. The structures of both channels in the absence and presence of PIP(2) suggest that G proteins open only the G loop gate in the absence of PIP(2), but in the presence of PIP(2) the G loop gate and a second inner helix gate become coupled, so that both gates open. We also identify a strategically located Na(+) ion-binding site, which would allow intracellular Na(+) to modulate GIRK channel activity. These data provide a structural basis for understanding multiligand regulation of GIRK channel gating.

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Species referenced: Xenopus laevis
Genes referenced: kcnj3 kcnj5 kcnj6

References [+] :
Boudker, Coupling substrate and ion binding to extracellular gate of a sodium-dependent aspartate transporter. 2007, Pubmed