A new review titled “Mitochondrial potassium channels: mitochondria-specific mechanism of regulation” by Intracellular Ion Channels Lab at Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology PAS and collaborating centers has just been published in Biophysical Reviews. The article provides an up-to-date synthesis of current knowledge on potassium channels located in the inner mitochondrial membrane (mitoK) and the unique regulatory mechanisms that distinguish them from their plasma-membrane counterparts.
The authors emphasize that the distinct biochemical and biophysical environment of mitochondria—including high membrane potential, intense metabolic flux, and close association with the respiratory chain—creates organelle-specific conditions that shape mitoK channel activity. The review highlights how mitoK channels are regulated by:
– reactive oxygen species,
– respiratory chain components,
– protein–protein interactions,
– kinase-dependent phosphorylation,
– metabolic factors such as ATP, Ca²⁺, and heme.
Understanding these regulatory pathways is essential for advancing research on ischemia–reperfusion protection, cancer metabolism, and the development of future therapeutics targeting mitochondrial dysfunction.
This publication represents one of the most comprehensive analyses of mitochondrial potassium channel regulation and opens new perspectives on the role of mitochondria in cellular physiology and disease. The get pdf of the the paper follow the link: https://rdcu.be/eR28n