Abstract
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a gasotransmitter. Once generated in cells, CO affects specific cellular functions depending on cell types and specific targets in the cells. Ion channels couple membrane excitability and metabolism to cellular functions. The interaction of CO and ion channels constitutes an important mechanism for the biological effect of CO. CO has been reported to alter the expression or function of K+ channels, Ca2+ channels, Na+ channels, and other types of nonselective ion channels in different tissues. Different types of K+ channels are the main target of CO in various tissues including visceral smooth muscle cells. Modulation of Ca2+ channel function by CO has been controversial, especially in chemosensitive cells of the carotid body. The diversity of effects of CO on ion channels is best exemplified in neurons. Future studies need to establish more specifically the role of endogenous CO in the regulation of the ion channel, the molecular mechanisms for the CO-induced changes in ion channel function and expression, and the correlation of the effects of CO on ion channels with specific cellular functions. Pathophysiological implications of the effects of CO on ion channels should also be intensively investigated to elucidate the pathological role of abnormal CO metabolism and function.
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