Abstract
In the brain and heart, auxiliary Kv channel-interacting proteins (KChIPs) co-assemble with pore-forming Kv4 α-subunits to form a native K(+) channel complex and regulate the expression and gating properties of Kv4 currents. Among the KChIP1-4 members, KChIP4a exhibits a unique N terminus that is known to suppress Kv4 function, but the underlying mechanism of Kv4 inhibition remains unknown. Using a combination of confocal imaging, surface biotinylation, and electrophysiological recordings, we identified a novel endoplasmic reticulum (ER) retention motif, consisting of six hydrophobic and aliphatic residues, 12-17 (LIVIVL), within the KChIP4a N-terminal KID, that functions to reduce surface expression of Kv4-KChIP complexes. This ER retention capacity is transferable and depends on its flanking location. In addition, adjacent to the ER retention motif, the residues 19-21 (VKL motif) directly promote closed-state inactivation of Kv4.3, thus leading to an inhibition of channel current. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that KChIP4a suppresses A-type Kv4 current via ER retention and enhancement of Kv4 closed-state inactivation.
Highlights
Compared with other auxiliary Kv channel-interacting proteins (KChIPs) that enhance Kv4 current, KChIP4a inhibits Kv4 function
KChIP4a Suppresses Kv4.3 Function via Its N-terminal Kv4 channel inhibitory domain (KID)— To investigate the underlying mechanism by which auxiliary KChIP4a inhibits Kv4 function, we started by examining the effect of KChIP4a coexpressed with Kv4.3 on the channel current in both mammalian cells and Xenopus laevis oocytes
These results demonstrate that the inhibitory effect of KChIP4a on Kv4 is mediated by its N-terminal KID
Summary
Compared with other auxiliary KChIPs that enhance Kv4 current, KChIP4a inhibits Kv4 function. Results: We identified an ER retention motif and an adjacent VKL motif within the KChIP4a N terminus that reduces Kv4.3 surface expression and promotes closed-state inactivation (CSI), respectively. Using a combination of confocal imaging, surface biotinylation, and electrophysiological recordings, we identified a novel endoplasmic reticulum (ER) retention motif, consisting of six hydrophobic and aliphatic residues, 12–17 (LIVIVL), within the KChIP4a N-terminal KID, that functions to reduce surface expression of Kv4-KChIP complexes. This ER retention capacity is transferable and depends on its flanking location. Our findings demonstrate that KChIP4a suppresses A-type Kv4 current via ER retention and enhancement of Kv4 closed-state inactivation
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