Figure 8. Endothelial Kir channels boost the dilatations to endothelial vasodilators .

Activation of inositol trisphosphate receptors (IP3Rs) or TRPV4 channels increases endothelial Ca²⁺, which activates IK/SK channels. The ensuing K⁺ efflux from the ECs and membrane hyperpolarization can activate endothelial Kir channels, which provide a hyperpolarization boost and amplify the vasodilatory signal. Abbreviations: AKAP150, A‐kinase anchoring protein 150; PKC, protein kinase C.