Differential subcellular distribution of ion channels and the diversity of neuronal function.
Following the astonishing molecular diversity of voltage-gated ion channels that was revealed in the past few decades, the ion channel repertoire expressed by neurons has been implicated as the major factor governing their functional heterogeneity. Although the molecular structure of ion channels is a key determinant of their biophysical properties, their subcellular distribution and densities on the surface of nerve cells are just as important for fulfilling functional requirements. Recent results obtained with high resolution quantitative localization techniques revealed complex, subcellular compartment-specific distribution patterns of distinct ion channels. Here I suggest that within a given neuron type every ion channel has a unique cell surface distribution pattern, with the functional consequence that this dramatically increases the computational power of nerve cells.
Laboratory of Cellular Neurophysiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szigony Street 43, 1083 Budapest, Hungary. nusser@koki.hu
Zoltan
Z
Nusser
D000818:Animals; D002462:Cell Membrane / Q000378:metabolism; D007473:Ion Channels / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D009474:Neurons / Q000145:classification / Q000166:cytology*; D013347:Subcellular Fractions / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000648:ultrastructure
D007473:Ion Channels