The beta1 subunit of the Ca2+-sensitive K+ channel protects against hypertension.
Previous animal studies have demonstrated that the loss of the beta(1) subunit of the large-conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) (BK) channel leads to hypertension. A new study demonstrates that a gain in beta(1) subunit function is associated with protection against diastolic hypertension in humans, underscoring the importance of the beta(1) subunit and the BK channel in the regulation of vascular resistance.
Nelson
Mark T
MT
Department of Pharmacology, University of Vermont, Burlington 05405, USA. Mark.Nelson@uvm.edu
Bonev
Adrian D
AD
D006801:Humans; D006973:Hypertension / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism / Q000517:prevention & control; D051036:Large-Conductance Calcium-Activated Potassium Channels; D024681:Potassium Channels, Calcium-Activated / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology*; D021122:Protein Subunits / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism; D014655:Vascular Resistance / Q000235:genetics
D051036:Large-Conductance Calcium-Activated Potassium Channels; D024681:Potassium Channels, Calcium-Activated; D021122:Protein Subunits