Chapter 9 Reconstitution of Epithelial Ion Channels

Abstract

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on the reconstitution of ion channels, emphasizing both functional and biochemical approaches. Functional reconstitution means the direct transfer of an ion channel from its native membrane into a planar lipid bilayer, whereas biochemical reconstitution refers to the detergent extraction and purification of an ion channel and its subsequent reinsertion back into a defined lipid environment. The chapter summarizes the experimental approaches used in the isolation of ion channels and discusses planar lipid bilayer techniques used in reconstitution studies. It also provides a description of the channel incorporation process and discusses the advantages and disadvantages of each method using specific examples of channels studied in each fashion. The chapter considers reconstitution studies of Na + , CI – , and K + channels from epithelial tissues. It concludes by giving projections and expectations of the future of the reconstitution field.