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Subunit requirements for Torpedo AChR channel expression: A specific role for the δ-subunit in voltage-dependent gating

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Summary

This study examines the subunit requirement for Torpedo acetylcholine receptor (AChR) channel expression and the influence of non-α-subunit deletions on single AChR-channel currents. Xenopus oocytes injected with subunit combinations deficient in single non-α-subunit mRNA transcripts display the following order of ACh sensitivity: β-less > γ-less > δ-less. Oocytes injected with only the α-subunit and one non-α-subunit display the order: αδ > αγ > αβ. These sequences indicate the effectiveness of non-α-subunit substitution is δ > γ > β. Single AChR-channel currents measured in oocytes deficient in either β or γ display conductance and voltage-sensitive burst kinetics similar to the wild-type channel. In contrast, the δ-less combination express channels with burst kinetics that are relatively faster and voltage insensitive. These results indicate that either a specific structural domain in the δ-subunit or its specific interactions with the α-subunit contribute to the voltage-dependent gating of the Torpedo AChR channel.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Section of Neurobiology and Behavior, Seeley G. Mudd Hall, Cornell University, 14853, Ithaca, New York

    M. D. Golino & O. P. Hamill

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  1. M. D. Golino
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  2. O. P. Hamill
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We thank Dr. Toni Claudio for providing us with the clones and the Cornell Biotechnology Program for their support.

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Golino, M.D., Hamill, O.P. Subunit requirements for Torpedo AChR channel expression: A specific role for the δ-subunit in voltage-dependent gating. J. Membarin Biol. 129, 297–309 (1992). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00232911

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00232911

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