Localization of Inwardly Rectifying K⁺ Channels

Creative Bioarray is dedicated to providing our clients with expression and localization analysis services for multiple inwardly rectifying potassium channel (K_ir) channels to meet their scientific needs in ion channel-related projects. We use a variety of advanced tools to help clients obtain detailed information on the distribution of K_ir channels in a variety of tissues to facilitate understanding of K_ir channels.

Background

K_ir is a specific type of potassium channel that is neither voltage-gated nor chemically gated, but which can exhibit changes in permeability in response to changes in voltage. K_ir channels have been found to be expressed in a variety of organs and cell types and play key roles in cellular functions, including maintaining resting membrane potential, regulating cellular excitability, and regulating systemic electrolyte homeostasis.

To date, more than 20 K_ir family members have been identified and can be classified into seven types based on their amino acid sequence and functional properties: K_ir1- K_ir7. The study of these ion channels is complex and often requires a combination of disciplinary approaches, including identification and localization of mRNA and/or protein expression, functional characterization using electrophysiological techniques, and assessment of physiological effects using genetic models and/or pharmacological targets. Among these, studies of the localization and distribution of K_ir channels are the theoretical basis for gaining insight into their structure and function.

Fig. 1 Definitions of inward rectification and G protein activation in IRK channels. (Nishida, 2002)

Our Services

K_ir channels act in many tissues, such as the brain, heart, kidney, and endocrine. The localization of these channels in specific regions of the cell and in membrane micro-regions where they may be in close contact with other transport molecules are important contributors to their functional roles in different cells and tissues. To advance the field of the physiological function of K_ir channels, our researchers are committed to providing clients with a wide range of K_ir channels localization services. Our services include but are not limited to:

• Intracellular localization of classical K_ir channels (K_ir 2.x)
• Identification of K_ir 2.x subunits at specific locations in cells such as neurons and epithelial cells.
• Analysis of the transport of classical K_ir channels to membranes.
• Localization in the membrane macrodomains.
• Localization of G protein-gated K_ir channels (K_ir 3.x)
• We use parallel analysis of adjacent tissue sections in immunocytochemistry and in situ hybridization to help our clients study the sub-organ distribution of G-protein-gated K_ir channels in different parts of the brain, such as cerebellar cortex, basal ganglia, and cerebral cortex.
• We provide advanced light and electron microscopy techniques to help our clients reveal the precise localization of K_ir 3.x subunits in neurons.
• Localization of K_ATP Channels (K_ir 6.x/SURx)
• Identification and localization of K_ATP channels in native tissues, such as cardiac myocytes, skeletal muscle, and vascular smooth muscle.
• Identification of mitochondrial K_ATP channels.
• Intracellular localization of K+ transport channels (K_ir 1.1, K_ir 4.x, K_ir 5.x, K_ir 7.x)

Applications

• Study on the physiological functions of K_ir channels in various tissues
• Study on the interactions between K_ir subunits and anchored proteins
• Study on the pathophysiological correlation of K_ir channels

Equipped with a world-class technology platform and a dedicated scientific team, Creative Bioarray is well-positioned to provide high-quality K_ir channel localization services to our clients. We ensure that scientific reports including reliable experimental data and clear images are submitted within a short time frame. If you are interested in our services, please contact us for more details.

Reference

1. Nishida, M.; MacKinnon, R. Structural basis of inward rectification: cytoplasmic pore of the G protein-gated inward rectifier GIRK1 at 1.8 Å resolution. Cell, 2002, 111(7): 957-965.