Gi Irks GIRKs

Neuron. 2002 Jan 3;33(1):6-8. doi: 10.1016/s0896-6273(01)00572-4.

Abstract

G protein-activated potassium channels (GIRKs), monitored with the temporal and molecular resolution of electrophysiology, play a key role in the study of signal transduction. GIRKs are activated primarily by the G(beta)(gamma) subunits, but a paper by Peleg et al. (2002 [this issue of Neuron]) demonstrates a role for G(alpha) subunits in suppressing basal activity and supports the idea of a macromolecular complex of G protein, GIRK, and perhaps RGS protein.

Publication types

  • Comment
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Membrane / metabolism*
  • G Protein-Coupled Inwardly-Rectifying Potassium Channels
  • GTP-Binding Proteins / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Nervous System / metabolism*
  • Neurons / metabolism*
  • Potassium Channels / metabolism*
  • Potassium Channels, Inwardly Rectifying*
  • RGS Proteins / metabolism
  • Signal Transduction / physiology*
  • Synaptic Transmission / physiology*

Substances

  • G Protein-Coupled Inwardly-Rectifying Potassium Channels
  • Potassium Channels
  • Potassium Channels, Inwardly Rectifying
  • RGS Proteins
  • GTP-Binding Proteins