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Ion-dependent structure, dynamics, and allosteric coupling in a non-selective cation channel.

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  • 1Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53706, USA.

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The NaK channel

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Area of Science:

  • Biophysics
  • Ion Channel Physiology
  • Structural Biology

Background:

  • The selectivity filter (SF) governs ion permeation in ion channels.
  • NaK channels are non-selective cation channels conducting Na+ and K+ ions equally.
  • Previous studies proposed a rigid SF structure, but dynamic models are emerging.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the structural dynamics of the NaK channel's SF.
  • To determine how bound Na+ versus K+ ions influence SF structure and dynamics.
  • To elucidate the communication pathway between the SF and the channel pore.

Main Methods:

  • Solution Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy.
  • Characterization of ion binding effects on SF structure and dynamics.
  • Analysis of allosteric coupling mechanisms.

Main Results:

  • The extracellular end of the NaK SF exhibits ps-ns timescale flexibility irrespective of bound ion.
  • Slower timescale structural changes and increased heterogeneity are observed in the Na+-bound state compared to the K+-bound state.
  • Direct evidence shows SF structure is communicated to the pore via I88 on the M2 helix.

Conclusions:

  • The NaK SF is dynamic, adopting multiple conformations crucial for non-selective ion conduction.
  • Allosteric coupling between the SF and pore-lining helices is demonstrated in a non-selective cation channel.
  • This coupling mechanism is analogous to that in K+-selective channels, suggesting a general model for ion channel function.