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Outwardly rectifying anionic channel from the plasma membrane of the fungus Phycomyces blakesleeanus

Miroslav Zivić1, Marko Popović, Natasa Todorović

  • 1Department of Bio-Chemical and Medical Sciences, State University of Novi Pazar, Novi Pazar, Serbia. mzivic@np.ac.yu

Eukaryotic Cell
|July 14, 2009
PubMed

Insights

We describe the first outwardly rectifying anionic channel (ORAC) in filamentous fungi, Phycomyces blakesleeanus. This voltage-dependent channel exhibits fast kinetics and plays a role in anion transport and membrane potential regulation.

Area of Science:

  • Membrane biophysics
  • Fungal ion transport

Background:

  • Filamentous fungi possess complex membrane transport systems.
  • Understanding ion channel function is crucial for cellular physiology.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To characterize the outwardly rectifying anionic channel (ORAC) in Phycomyces blakesleeanus.
  • To elucidate the electrophysiological properties and functional role of ORAC.

Main Methods:

  • Patch clamp technique was employed to study the ORAC.
  • Unitary conductance, voltage dependence, and ion selectivity were analyzed.

Main Results:

  • ORAC is a prominent feature in Phycomyces blakesleeanus membranes.
  • The channel displays strong outward rectification, voltage-dependent gating, and fast kinetics.
  • It shows high selectivity for anions over cations and is modulated by malate.

Conclusions:

  • The ORAC is a key player in fungal anion accumulation.
  • It contributes to membrane potential regulation via local depolarization.
  • This study provides novel insights into fungal membrane transport mechanisms.

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