Sodium channel regulation in the nervous system: how the action potential keeps in shape.
Multiple Na+ channel types, differing in functional properties, have been identified in the nervous system. The role of distinct alpha subunits in generating this functional diversity is discussed in light of the recent finding that the beta 1 subunit modulates Na+ channel function. Possible mechanisms involved in the regulation of the genes coding for the different subunits are also discussed.
Mandel
G
G
Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, State University of New York, Stony Brook 11794.
D000200:Action Potentials / Q000502:physiology; D000818:Animals; D006801:Humans; D009424:Nervous System Physiological Phenomena; D015222:Sodium Channels / Q000502:physiology*
D015222:Sodium Channels