포유동물 생식세포 및 생식기관에서 발현되는 Two-Pore Domain 칼륨 통로

Abstract

Two-pore domain K+(K2P) channels contribute to setting the resting membrane potential in excitable and nonexcitable cells. However, the cellular or tissue distribution and function of K2P channels expressed in mammalian germ cells and reproductive organs have not yet been reviewed by researchers. In this review, we focus on expression, localization and expected properties of K2P channels in germ cells and reproductive organs. The K2P channels are expressed in human cytotrophoblast cells, myometrium, placental vascular system, uterine smooth muscle, and pregnant term tissue, suggesting that K2P channels might be involved in the processes of pregnance. The K2P channels are also expressed in mouse zygotes, monkey sperm, ovary, testis, germ cells, and embryos of Korean cattle. Interestingly, K2P channels are modulated by changes in temperature and oxygen concentration which play an important role in embryonic development. Also, K2P channels are responsible for K+ efflux during apoptotic volume decreases in mouse zygotes. These expression patterns and properties of the K2P channels in reproductive organs and germ cells are likely to help the understanding of ion channel-related function in reproductive physiology.