<unk> s (small conductance calcium-activated potassium channels) are a subfamily of Ca2+-activated K+ channels. They are so called because of their small single channel conductance in the order of 10 pS.<unk> s are a type of ion channel allowing potassium cations to cross the cell membrane and are activated (opened) by an increase in the concentration of intracellular calcium through N-type calcium channels. Their activation limits the firing frequency of action potentials and is important for regulating afterhyperpolarization in the neurons of the central nervous system as well as many other types of electrically excitable cells. This is accomplished through the hyperpolarizing leak of positively charged potassium ions along their concentration gradient into the extracellular space. This hyperpolarization causes the membrane potential to become more negative.<unk> s are thought to be involved in synaptic plasticity and therefore play important roles in learning and memory.
SK channel
Mechanosensitive channels
Glutamate transporter
Cyclic nucleotide–gated ion channel
G protein-gated ion channel
Norepinephrine transporter
Voltage-gated ion channel
Co-receptor