KCNE gene expression is dependent on the proliferation and mode of activation of leukocytes.

Voltage-dependent K (+) (Kv) channels are tightly regulated during the immune system response. Leukocytes have a limited repertoire of Kv channels, whose physiological role is under intense investigation. A functional Kv channel is an oligomeric complex composed of pore-forming and ancillary subunits. The KCNE gene family is a novel group of modulatory Kv channel elements in leukocytes. Here, we characterized the gene expression of KCNEs (1-5) in leukocytes and investigated their regulation during leukocyte proliferation and mode of activation. Murine bone-marrow-derived macrophages, human Jurkat T-lymphocytes and human Raji B-cells were analyzed. KCNEs (1-5) are expressed in all leukocytes lineages. Most KCNE mRNAs show cell cycle-dependent regulation and are differentially regulated under specific insults. Our results further suggest a new and yet undefined physiological role for KCNE subunits in the immune system. Putative associations of these ancillary proteins with Kv channels would yield a wide variety of biophysically and pharmacologically distinct channels that fine-tune the immunological response.

Citation

Laura Solé, Albert Vallejo-Gracia, Sara R Roig, Antonio Serrano-Albarrás, Laura Marruecos, Joan Manils, Diana Gómez, Concepció Soler, Antonio Felipe. KCNE gene expression is dependent on the proliferation and mode of activation of leukocytes. Channels (Austin, Tex.). 2013 Mar-Apr;7(2):85-96

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PMID: 23327879

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