Kv7.1 (KCNQ1) channels are regulators of several physiological processes including vasodilatation, repolarization of cardiomyocytes, and control of secretory processes. A number of Kv7.1 pore mutants are sensitive to extracellular potassium. We hypothesized that extracellular potassium also modulates wild-type Kv7.1 channels. The Kv7.1 currents were measured in Xenopus laevis oocytes at differe...

The endothelium is a highly active organ responsible for vasculatory tone and structure, angiogenesis, as well as hemodynamic, humoral, and inflammatory responses. The endothelium is constantly exposed to blood flow, sheer stress and tension. Endothelial cells are present as a vasculature in every tissue of the body and react to and control its microenvironment. A variety of ion channels are pr...

The atomic structures of K+ channels have added a new dimension to our understanding of K+ channel function. I will briefly review how structures have influenced our views on ion conduction, gating of the pore, and voltage sensing.

Variety of ion channels is present in plasma membrane of endothelial cells. These include the potassium channels such as Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels, inwardly rectifying K(+) channels, voltage-dependent K(+) channels and also ATP-regulated K(+) channels. Due to an influence on the membrane potential they are important regulators of vascular tone by modulating endothelial calcium ions signali...

introduction: we investigated the role of atp-sensitive potassium channels and l-type calcium channels in morphine-induced hyperalgesia after nociceptive sensitization. methods: we used a hotplate apparatus to assess pain behavior in male nmri mice. nociceptive sensitization was induced by three days injection of morphine and five days of drug free. on day 9 of the schedule, pain behavior test ...