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Negative Influence by the Force: Mechanically Induced Hyperpolarization via K2P Background Potassium Channels
Miklós Lengyel1, Péter Enyedi1, Gábor Czirják1
1Department of Physiology, Semmelweis University, P.O. Box 2, H-1428 Budapest, Hungary.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|August 27, 2021
Summary
TREK subfamily potassium channels are mechanosensitive, opening in response to membrane tension. This mechanical activation leads to hyperpolarization, impacting cellular functions by regulating membrane potential.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Physiology
Background:
- Two-pore domain potassium (K2P) channels are leak channels with constitutive activity.
- The TREK subfamily (TREK-1, TREK-2, TRAAK) comprises mechanosensitive K2P channels.
- These channels are directly influenced by phospholipid bilayer tension.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the principles of mechanical activation in K2P channels.
- To focus on the physiological roles of mechanically induced hyperpolarization.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on K2P channel mechanosensation.
- Analysis of molecular determinants of mechanosensation.
- Investigation of TREK channel function in various cell types.
Main Results:
- TREK channels open upon mechanical stimulation, typically causing outward K+ current.
- This outward current leads to membrane hyperpolarization.
- Mechanically induced hyperpolarization inhibits membrane potential-dependent cellular functions.
Conclusions:
- TREK subfamily channels are key players in cellular mechanotransduction.
- Mechanical activation of TREK channels is crucial for regulating membrane potential and cellular activity.
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