[Potassium channels, genetic and acquired diseases].
BACKGROUND
K(+) channels allow the passive and selective transport of K(+) ions through the membranes. They control K(+) homeostasis, neuronal and muscular excitabilities, and neurotransmitter and hormone release.


METHODS
K(+) channels are composed of pore-forming subunits associated with regulatory subunits. Many different K(+) channels have been identified.


CONCLUSIONS
This diversity is stressed by the growing number of genetic and acquired diseases associated with these channels.
Mazzuca
M
M
Institut de pharmacologie moléculaire et cellulaire, centre national de la recherche scientifique, Sophia-Antipolis, 660, route des Lucioles, 06560 Valbonne, France.
Lesage
F
F
D050030:Andersen Syndrome / Q000235:genetics; D001327:Autoimmune Diseases / Q000235:genetics; D001477:Bartter Syndrome / Q000235:genetics; D003922:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1 / Q000235:genetics; D004827:Epilepsy / Q000235:genetics; D006801:Humans; D007003:Hypoglycemia / Q000235:genetics; D008133:Long QT Syndrome / Q000235:genetics; D015221:Potassium Channels / Q000235:genetics*
D015221:Potassium Channels