KCNMB3 Human

MaxiK channels are crucial for the regulation of smooth muscle tone and neuronal excitability . These channels are composed of two subunits:

1. Alpha subunit: This forms the pore of the channel.
2. Beta subunit: This modulates the activity of the alpha subunit .

The KCNMB3 protein, as a beta subunit, plays a significant role in modulating the activity of the MaxiK channels. It can partially inactivate or slightly decrease the activation time of the MaxiK alpha subunit currents . This modulation is essential for the proper functioning of the channels, which in turn affects various physiological processes such as muscle contraction and neuronal signaling .

The KCNMB3 gene is located on chromosome 3 at the band 3q26.32 . The gene undergoes alternative splicing, resulting in multiple transcript variants that encode different isoforms of the protein . Additionally, a related pseudogene has been identified on chromosome 22 .

The KCNMB3 protein is expressed in various tissues, including the pancreas, spleen, placenta, liver, stomach, aorta, and bone marrow cells . It is an integral component of the membrane and is primarily localized in the plasma membrane .

Recombinant KCNMB3 proteins are produced using expression systems such as Escherichia coli (E. coli) . These recombinant proteins are used in research to study the function and regulation of MaxiK channels. They are also utilized in blocking experiments with corresponding antibodies in immunohistochemistry (IHC), immunocytochemistry (ICC), and western blot (WB) experiments .

Recombinant KCNMB3 proteins are valuable tools in biomedical research. They help in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of potassium channels and their role in various physiological and pathological conditions. These proteins are also used in drug discovery and development, particularly in identifying potential therapeutic targets for diseases related to abnormal potassium channel activity .