Potassium Channels
Potassium ion channels are the most widely distributed type of ion channels and are found in almost all living organisms. They form potassium-selective pores across cell membranes. Potassium ion channels are present in most cell types and control a variety of cell functions such as cognition, muscle contraction and hormone secretion. Therefore, abnormal function of potassium channels may lead to diseases (such as diabetes) and life-threatening arrhythmias. Potassium channels may also be involved in maintaining vascular tone.
There are four main types of potassium channels:
- Calcium-activated potassium channels - open in response to the presence of calcium ions.
- Inwardly rectifying potassium channels - pass current (positive charge) in the inward direction (into the cell).
- Tandem pore domain potassium channels - constitutively open or have a high degree of basic activation, such as "quiescent potassium channels" or "leak channels" that set the negative membrane potential of neurons.
- Voltage-gated potassium channels - voltage-gated ion channels that can open or close in response to changes in transmembrane voltage.
Potassium channel classes & functions
| Class | Subclasses | Function | Blockers | Activators |
| Calcium-activated |
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| Inwardly rectifying |
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| Tandem pore domain |
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| Voltage-gated |
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Creative Biolabs provides a variety of potassium channel blockers, which can prevent potassium ions from passing through the channels on the cell membrane, and are used to treat hypertension and epilepsy. Our product portfolio also includes a series of products for potassium channel receptors research, including monoclonal antibodies, labeled antibodies, proteins, assay kits, and small molecule activators and inhibitors.
Please browse the options to take a deeper look at the tools for your research needs.
