title: Potassium channel structures.
abstract: The molecular basis of K+ channel function is universally conserved. K+ channels allow K+ flux and are essential for the generation of electric current across excitable membranes. K+ channels are also the targets of various intracellular control mechanisms, such that the suboptimal regulation of channel function might be related to pathological conditions. Because of the fundamental role of K+ channels in controlling membrane excitability, a structural understanding of their function and regulation will provide a useful framework for understanding neuronal physiology. Many recent physiological and crystallographic studies have led to new insights into the workings of K+ channels.
authors.affiliation: The Salk Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, USA. choe@salk.edu
authors.forename: Senyon
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Choe
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D002462:Cell Membrane / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D008564:Membrane Potentials / Q000502:physiology; D011188:Potassium / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000502:physiology; D024642:Potassium Channels, Voltage-Gated / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000502:physiology; D017434:Protein Structure, Tertiary / Q000502:physiology; D015398:Signal Transduction / Q000502:physiology; D009435:Synaptic Transmission / Q000502:physiology*
chemical_list: D024642:Potassium Channels, Voltage-Gated; D011188:Potassium