Figure 9.
Diagram of major heterotetrameric structures in Raw macrophages upon immunomodulation. Raw cells express Kv1.3 and Kv1.5. Because MgTx abolished Kv currents, Kv1.5 does not form homomeric complexes. However, molecular, pharmacological, and biophysical data indicate that Raw cells express more Kv1.5 than Kv1.3. LPS-induced macrophages increased the number of Kv1.3 subunits at the complex. However, the immunosuppressant DEX decreases Kv1.3, which generates Kv1.5-predominant heteromeric channels. Different Kv1.3/Kv1.5 molecular ratios are responsible for the biophysical properties that lead to functional consequences during activation and immunosuppression. White circles, Kv1.3; black circles, Kv1.5.