Ca2+-dependent K+ channels in exocrine salivary glands

Catalan, Marcelo A.; Pena-Munzenmayer, Gaspar; Melvin, James E.

Abstract

In the last 15 years, remarkable progress has been realized in identifying the genes that encode the ion-transporting proteins involved in exocrine gland function, including salivary glands. Among these proteins, Ca2+-dependent K+ channels take part in key functions including membrane potential regulation, fluid movement and K+ secretion in exocrine glands. Two K+ channels have been identified in exocrine salivary glands: (1) a Ca2+-activated K+ channel of intermediate single channel conductance encoded by the KCNN4 gene, and (2) a voltage- and Ca2+-dependent K+ channel of large single channel conductance encoded by the KCNMA1 gene. This review focuses on the physiological roles of Ca2+-dependent K+ channels in exocrine salivary glands. We also discuss interesting recent findings on the regulation of Ca2+-dependent K+ channels by protein-protein interactions that may significantly impact exocrine gland physiology. (C) 2014 Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Más información

Título según WOS: ID WOS:000338619000011 Not found in local WOS DB
Título de la Revista: CELL CALCIUM
Volumen: 55
Número: 6
Editorial: ELSEVIER SCI LTD
Fecha de publicación: 2014
Página de inicio: 362
Página final: 368
DOI:

10.1016/j.ceca.2014.01.005

Notas: ISI