Molecular mechanisms mediating inhibition of G protein-coupled inwardly-rectifying K+ channels

Neuronal G protein-coupled inwardly-rectifying potassium channels (GIRKs, Kir3.x) can be activated or inhibited by distinct classes of receptors (G(alphai/o and Galphaq/11-coupled, respectively), providing dynamic regulation of neuronal excitability. In this mini-review, we highlight findings from our laboratory in which we used a mammalian heterologous expression system to address mechanisms of GIRK channel regulation by Galpha and Gbetagamma subunits. We found that, like beta1- and beta2-containing Gbetagamma dimers, GIRK channels are also activated by G protein betagamma dimers containing beta3 and beta4 subunits. By contrast, GIRK currents are inhibited by beta5-containing Gbetagamma dimers and/or by Galpha proteins of the Galphaq/11 family. The properties of Gbeta5-mediated inhibition suggest that beta5-containing Gbetagamma dimers act as competitive antagonists of other activating Gbetagamma pairs on GIRK channels. Inhibition of GIRK channels by Galpha subunits is specific to members of the Gaq/11 family and appears to result, at least in part, from activation of phospholipase C (PLC) and the resultant decrease in membrane levels of phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphospbate (PIP2), an endogenous co-factor necessary for GIRK channel activity; this Galphaq/11 activated mechanism is largely responsible for receptor-mediated GIRK channel inhibition.