Investigations into the molecular basis of regulation of ATP-sensitive K+ chaannels by SUR proteins, members of ABC transporters

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

The sulphonyl urea (SUR) protein family is a member of a large superfamily of membrane proteins found in all organisms. By utilizing the energy of ATP, known as the energy currency of the cell, these proteins bind compounds at the membrane and/or actively transport solutes into and out of the cell. Proper regulation of this process is essential, as many genetic diseases, including cystic fibrosis and adrenoleukodystrophy, result from dysfunction of different proteins in this ubiquitous protein superfamily. SUR proteins are part of a large protein complex that functions as a potassium channel and use ATP to regulate opening and closing of the channel pore. Regulation of the protein that forms the channel pore (called Kir6.x) by the SURs is essential. Dysfunction of SUR proteins that affects their ability to use ATP, to adopt their cognate three-dimensional structure, and to interact with Kir6.x in the channel complex result in cardiovascular disorders and pancreatic diseases related to insulin production.