Ion Channels

The ion channel is the basic element of signal transduction. Correct conformation and function of ion channel proteins are the foundation of a sustainable life process. Gene mutation and dysfunction of these proteins are related to the occurrence and development of many diseases. With the rapid development of cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM), researchers have solved the three-dimensional structures of various ion channels, which gives a better understanding of the signaling pathways and helps develop treatment strategies for different diseases.

Figure 1. Selectivity filter allowing only potassium ions through the potassium channel.

Ion channels can be divided into two types according to their activation modes: one is voltage-activated channels, the opening of which is controlled by membrane potential, such as Na⁺, Ca²⁺, Cl^- and K⁺; The other is chemically activated channels, which are activated by the interactions between chemicals and receptors on the membrane, such as Ach receptor channels, amino acid receptor channels, Ca²⁺-activated K⁺ channels, and so on. At present, cryo-EM in our platform can analyze the protein structure of sodium, potassium, and calcium channels, providing effective support for drug development and disease treatment.

Cryo-EM has an invaluable contribution to the study of extremely large ion channel complexes such as the Ryanodine receptor (RyR), one of the largest known ion channels with a mass of 2.2 MDa. RyR mediates intracellular Ca²⁺ release and is a potential therapeutic target for heart disease. These resolved ion channel protein structures will become important targets for drug design, and once again demonstrate the power of cryo-EM technology.

If you are interested in our cryo-EM services for drug discovery, please feel free to contact us. We are looking forward to cooperating with you.

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