B lymphocytes taken to task: a role for a background conductance K2P K+ channel in B cells. Focus on 'Expression of TASK-2 and its upregulation by B cell receptor stimulation in WEHI-231 mouse immature B cells

摘要

the pivotal role played by K~+ channels in lymphocyte biology has long been recognized (4). Two K~+ channels have been reported in T and B lymphocytes, a voltage-gated Kvl.3 (or KCNA3) channel and the Ca~(2+)-dependent IK! (KCNN4) channel. These K~+ channels are involved in the intracellular Ca~(2+) signaling that triggers lymphocyte activation via the control they exert on the lymphocyte membrane potential. Activation of lymphocytes takes place by inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-stimulated Ca~(2+) release from intracellular stores. As the stores are depleted, calcium-release-activated calcium (CRAC) channels come into action to sustain a continued entry of Ca~(2+) and an increase in intracellular Ca~(2+) activity.