[Integrative function of nervous cells: role of potassium channels].

Complex processing and integration of the signals observed in neurons are facilitated by a diverse range ofthe gating properties of the ion channels in this cell type, particularly of the voltage-gated potassium channels. A distinctive combination of potassium channels endows neurons with a broad repertoire of the excitable properties and allows each neuron to respond in a specific manner to a given input at a given time. The properties of many potassium channels can be modulated by second messenger pathways activated by neurotransmitters and other stimuli. Potassium channels are among the most frequent targets of the actions of several signaling systems.