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Sexual dimorphism and oestrogen regulation of KCNE3 expression modulates the functional properties of KCNQ1 K + channels
Author(s) -
Alzamora Rodrigo,
O’Mahony Fiona,
Bustos Viviana,
RapettiMauss Raphael,
Urbach Valérie,
Cid L. Pablo,
Sepúlveda Francisco V.,
Harvey Brian J.
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
the journal of physiology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.802
H-Index - 240
eISSN - 1469-7793
pISSN - 0022-3751
DOI - 10.1113/jphysiol.2011.215772
Subject(s) - gating , biology , endocrinology , potassium channel , medicine , patch clamp , secretion , sexual dimorphism , microbiology and biotechnology , biophysics , receptor , genetics
Non‐Technical Summary High levels of oestrogen are known to cause fluid retention in fertile females. It is thought that the increase in body fluid volume is necessary for proper implantation of the fertilised egg in the uterus. We show that the activity of a potassium ion channel, which drives salt and water movement across the cell membranes of the intestine, is inhibited by oestrogen and this effect is only found in females and is maximal during the peak phase of oestrogen in the oestrous cycle (when fertilization and implantation occur). These findings help us to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying the fluid retention effects of oestrogen in health and the potential adverse effects this response may have in exacerbating disease where fluid secretion is compromised such as in cystic fibrosis (the so‐called CF ‘gender gap’).