Title: BKCa-Cav channel complexes mediate rapid and localized Ca2+-activated K+ signaling.

Authors: Henrike Berkefeld, Claudia A Sailer, Wolfgang Bildl, Volker Rohde, Jörg-Oliver Thumfart, Silke Eble, Norbert Klugbauer, Ellen Reisinger, Josef Bischofberger, Dominik Oliver, Hans-Günther Knaus, Uwe Schulte, Bernd Fakler

Journal, date & volume: Science, 2006 Oct 27 , 314, 615-20

PubMed link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17068255

Abstract
Large-conductance calcium- and voltage-activated potassium channels (BKCa) are dually activated by membrane depolarization and elevation of cytosolic calcium ions (Ca2+). Under normal cellular conditions, BKCa channel activation requires Ca2+ concentrations that typically occur in close proximity to Ca2+ sources. We show that BKCa channels affinity-purified from rat brain are assembled into macromolecular complexes with the voltage-gated calcium channels Cav1.2 (L-type), Cav2.1 (P/Q-type), and Cav2.2 (N-type). Heterologously expressed BKCa-Cav complexes reconstitute a functional "Ca2+ nanodomain" where Ca2+ influx through the Cav channel activates BKCa in the physiological voltage range with submillisecond kinetics. Complex formation with distinct Cav channels enables BKCa-mediated membrane hyperpolarization that controls neuronal firing pattern and release of hormones and transmitters in the central nervous system.