New operating principle of potassium channels discovered

(University of Basel) Neurons transmit information with the help of special channels that allow the passage of potassium ions. Defective potassium channels play a role in epilepsy and depression. The scientists working with Professor Henning Stahlberg at the Biozentrum of the University of Basel have now identified the complete 3D structure of a particular potassium channel, a HCN channel. This enabled them to draw conclusions about its mechanism of action, which they describe in the current issue of Nature Communications.

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2014-01/uob-nop012814.php

Source: EurekAlert! - Biology - January 28, 2014 Category: Biology Source Type: news