Abstract
Some algal viruses contain genes that encode proteins with the hallmarks of K+ channels. One feature of these proteins is that they are less than 100 amino acids in size, which make them truly minimal for a K+ channel protein. That is, they consist of only the pore module present in more complex K+ channels. The combination of miniature size and the functional robustness of the viral K+ channels make them ideal model systems for studying how K+ channels work. Here we summarize recent structure/function correlates from these channels, which provide insight into functional properties such as gating, pharmacology and sorting in cells.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 580-588 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | Biochimica et Biophysica Acta - Biomembranes |
Volume | 1808 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Feb 2011 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Chlorella virus
- K channel structure function
- Kcv
- Viral ion channel
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Biophysics
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology