Closed TRAAK Channel (IMAGE)

Rockefeller University

Closed TRAAK Channel

Caption

The TRAAK channel (purple and orange) dampens sensations by letting potassium ions escape from a neuron. Researchers found the channel uses a never-before-seen system for closing: A lipid (yellow) from the surrounding neuron membrane (gray) protrudes into the channel, blocking the flow of ions and shutting off the dampening signal.

Credit

Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology and Biophysics at The Rockefeller University

Usage Restrictions

This image may only be used to illustrate the research described in the accompanying story.

License

Licensed content

Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.