Possible tetrameric configurations during labeling of C189-Kir1.1b, single-Cys dimers. (A) Dimers labeled with terbium chelate donor, (B) dimers labeled with BODIPY-FL maleimide SE. Upon mixing, dimers (A and B) self-assemble into tetramers having one donor and one acceptor ((C) ∼50%), or tetramers having only donors or only acceptors ((D) ∼25% each). Donors and acceptors on adjacent subunits (E) are not structurally possible. To see this figure in color, go online.