K+ channel activity in plants: genes, regulations and functions

FEBS Lett. 2007 May 25;581(12):2357-66. doi: 10.1016/j.febslet.2007.03.058. Epub 2007 Mar 30.

Abstract

Potassium (K(+)) is the most abundant cation in the cytosol, and plant growth requires that large amounts of K(+) are transported from the soil to the growing organs. K(+) uptake and fluxes within the plant are mediated by several families of transporters and channels. Here, we describe the different families of K(+)-selective channels that have been identified in plants, the so-called Shaker, TPK and Kir-like channels, and what is known so far on their regulations and physiological functions in the plant.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Electrophysiology
  • Genes, Plant*
  • Ion Transport
  • Phylogeny
  • Plant Proteins / classification
  • Plant Proteins / genetics*
  • Plant Proteins / metabolism*
  • Plants / genetics*
  • Plants / metabolism*
  • Potassium / metabolism
  • Potassium Channels / classification
  • Potassium Channels / genetics*
  • Potassium Channels / metabolism*
  • Subcellular Fractions / metabolism

Substances

  • Plant Proteins
  • Potassium Channels
  • Potassium