New disguises for an old channel: MaxiK channel beta-subunits.
Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels of large conductance (MaxiK or BK channels) control a large variety of physiological processes, including smooth muscle tone, neurosecretion, and hearing. Despite being coded by a single gene (Slowpoke), the diversity of MaxiK channels is great. Regulatory b-subunits, splicing, and metabolic regulation create this diversity fundamental to the adequate function of many tissues.
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Patricio
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Centro de Estudios Científicos (CECS), Valdivia, Chile.
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Gonzalo
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D000595:Amino Acid Sequence; D000818:Animals; D019439:Chromaffin Cells / Q000737:chemistry / Q000502:physiology; D003051:Cochlea / Q000737:chemistry / Q000502:physiology; D051036:Large-Conductance Calcium-Activated Potassium Channels; D008969:Molecular Sequence Data; D009130:Muscle, Smooth / Q000737:chemistry / Q000502:physiology; D024681:Potassium Channels, Calcium-Activated / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000502:physiology*; D017434:Protein Structure, Tertiary
D051036:Large-Conductance Calcium-Activated Potassium Channels; D024681:Potassium Channels, Calcium-Activated