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Science 27 October 2006:
Vol. 314. no. 5799, p. 561
DOI: 10.1126/science.314.5799.561h
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Large-conductance Ca2- and voltage-activated K (BKCa) channels play diverse and critical roles in a number of neuronal functions and provide a link between membrane potential and intracellular calcium. Previous studies suggested a tight functional coupling between BK channels and certain classes of voltage-gated Ca2 channels in neurons. However, the molecular basis for such coupling has been unclear. Berkefeld et al. (p. 615) now confirm that BKCa channels form bimolecular complexes with voltage-gated Ca2 channels. This bimolecular complex formation provides the basis for the fast and localized Ca2-activated K signaling that controls neuronal firing pattern and release of hormones and transmitters in the central nervous system.




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Science. ISSN 0036-8075 (print), 1095-9203 (online)