Referenced in: none

Automatically associated channels: Slo1

Title: Functional diversity of the superfamily of K⁺ transporters to meet various requirements.

Authors: Marina Diskowski, Vedrana Mikusevic, Charlott Stock, Inga Hänelt

Journal, date & volume: Biol. Chem., 2015 Sep , 396, 1003-14

PubMed link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25838295

Abstract
The superfamily of K+ transporters unites proteins from plants, fungi, bacteria, and archaea that translocate K+ and/or Na+ across membranes. These proteins are key components in osmotic regulation, pH homeostasis, and resistance to high salinity and dryness. The members of the superfamily are closely related to K+ channels such as KcsA but also show several striking differences that are attributed to their altered functions. This review highlights these functional differences, focusing on the bacterial superfamily members KtrB, TrkH, and KdpA. The functional variations within the family and comparison to MPM-type K+ channels are discussed in light of the recently solved structures of the Ktr and Trk systems.