1.D.122.  The TRP-PK1 Channel, derived from the 4th TMS of TRPV4 (TRP-PK1) Family

A synthetic peptide, the sequence of which was derived from the fourth TMS of TRPV4 (TC# 1.A.4.2.5), was found to be capable of self-assembling into potassium (K⁺)-like ion channels and was designated TRP-PK1 (Yu et al. 2014).  It formed channels in the membranes of liposomes and live cells. TRP-PK1 effectively mediates K⁺ flow across membranes to regulate the membrane potential. It is also able to relax agonist-induced vessel contraction and regulate the resting blood pressure by hyperpolarizing the vascular smooth muscle cell membrane potential. TRP-PK1 is a lead compound for mimicking K⁺ channels and treating hypertension, heart rate disorder and other K⁺ channel dysfunction-induced diseases.