Referenced in: none

Automatically associated channels: Kv11.1

Title: The S631A mutation causes a mechanistic switch in the block of hERG channels by CnErg1.

Authors: Adam P Hill, T J Campbell, P S Bansal, P W Kuchel, J I Vandenberg

Journal, date & volume: Biophys. J., 2007 Sep 15 , 93, L32-4

PubMed link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17631536

Abstract
We have studied the interaction of CnErg1, a member of the gamma-KTX subfamily of scorpion toxins with the inactivation-deficient S631A hERG channel. In the background of this mutation, we observed a mechanistic switch from turret block, characteristic of the action of gamma-KTXs on Kv11-type channels, to pore plugging, characteristic of alpha-KTX block of Kv1-type channels. We suggest this reflects destabilization of the outer pore (turret region) of hERG allowing access of the toxin molecule to directly plug the conduction pathway.