Cell biology aspects of ion channel functioning: microdomain formation, lateral mobility and ER export

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The correct functioning of ion channels depends not only on the control of their activity but also on the localisation of the channel to specific domains in the plasma membrane and its regulated transport to the plasma membrane. The plant K+ channel KAT1 forms large clusters in the plasma membrane. The efficient transport of this channel to the plasma membrane was found to depend on ER export signals. Using electrophysiological, molecular biology and fluorescence microscopy techniques we will investigate the mechanisms underlying the spatial distribution of the K+ channel and the regulation of ER export. We will also analyse the role of these processes in channel functioning. We will therefore study the effect of lipids known to be enriched in specific domains on channel kinetics and lateral mobility. In addition, we will determine the relationship between regulated ER export and trafficking of K+ channel heteromers and characterise ER subdomains which seem to be associated with K+ channel synthesis.