Referenced in: none

Automatically associated channels: Kir6.1 , Kir6.2

Title: The structure and function of the ATP-sensitive K+ channel in insulin-secreting pancreatic beta-cells.

Authors: T Miki, K Nagashima, S Seino

Journal, date & volume: J. Mol. Endocrinol., 1999 Apr , 22, 113-23

PubMed link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10194514

Abstract
ATP-sensitive K+ channels (KATP channels) play important roles in many cellular functions by coupling cell metabolism to electrical activity. The KATP channels in pancreatic beta-cells are thought to be critical in the regulation of glucose-induced and sulfonylurea-induced insulin secretion. Until recently, however, the molecular structure of the KATP channel was not known. Cloning members of the novel inwardly rectifying K+ channel subfamily Kir6.0 (Kir6.1 and Kir6.2) and the sulfonylurea receptors (SUR1 and SUR2) has clarified the molecular structure of KATP channels. The pancreatic beta-cell KATP channel comprises two subunits: a Kir6.2 subunit and an SUR1 subunit. Molecular biological and molecular genetic studies have provided insights into the physiological and pathophysiological roles of the pancreatic beta-cell KATP channel in insulin secretion.