Tissue specificity in structure and function of ATP-sensitive potassium channel / 中国药理学通报

ABSTRACT

ATP-sensitive potassium channels (KATP channels) play important roles in various tissues tinder physiological and pathophysiological condi- conditions by coupling cell metabolic status to electrical activity. The KATP channel is a tetrameric complex of inwardly rectified potassium (Kir) and ATP binding protein (ABP). The Kir subunits form the channel pore, whereas ABP is required for activation and regulation. Both Kir and ABP are divided into different subunits and the various Kir and ABP subunits "mix and match" to form KATP channels with different pharmacological and nucleotide sensitivities. This review focuses on the molecular structure, physiological roles, pathophysiological and pharmacological proper ties of KATP channels in different tissues.