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XB-ART-13267
J Gen Physiol 1999 Apr 01;1134:555-64.
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Novel gating mechanism of polyamine block in the strong inward rectifier K channel Kir2.1.

Lee JK , John SA , Weiss JN .


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Inward rectifying K channels are essential for maintaining resting membrane potential and regulating excitability in many cell types. Previous studies have attributed the rectification properties of strong inward rectifiers such as Kir2.1 to voltage-dependent binding of intracellular polyamines or Mg to the pore (direct open channel block), thereby preventing outward passage of K ions. We have studied interactions between polyamines and the polyamine toxins philanthotoxin and argiotoxin on inward rectification in Kir2.1. We present evidence that high affinity polyamine block is not consistent with direct open channel block, but instead involves polyamines binding to another region of the channel (intrinsic gate) to form a blocking complex that occludes the pore. This interaction defines a novel mechanism of ion channel closure.

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Species referenced: Xenopus laevis
Genes referenced: kcnj2 tbx2


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References [+] :
Abrams, The role of a single aspartate residue in ionic selectivity and block of a murine inward rectifier K+ channel Kir2.1. 1996, Pubmed