A, Kv7.1 channels are formed by co‐assembly of four identical α‐subunits, each composed of six transmembrane segments. Co‐assembly of Kv7.1 channels with KCNE1 β‐subunits (single transmembrane domain) form slowly activating channels that conduct cardiac I
Ks in cardiac myocytes. B, KCNE1 subunits alter the voltage dependence of voltage sensor movement. The F–V relationship is shifted to more negative potentials, whereas the G–V relationship is shifted to more positive potentials. C, simplified kinetic model of Kv7.1 and IKs channel gating. Fourth power notation symbolizes four VSDs per channel. KCNE1 subunits suppresses channel opening when the VSDs are in the intermediate‐open (IO) state and stabilizes the activated‐open (AO) state. Modified from Zaydman et al. (2014).