ClC-2 Channels in Erythrocytes

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RESEARCH ARTICLE

ClC-2 Channels in Erythrocytes

Ekaterina Shumilina1 Stephan M. Huber, * Open Modal , 2
Authors Info & Affiliations
The Open Biology Journal • 31 Jan 2011 • RESEARCH ARTICLE • DOI: 10.2174/1874196701104010018

Abstract

ClC-2 is a ubiquitously expressed plasma membrane Cl- channel that reportedly controls the ionic environment in mouse retina and testis. Beyond that, ClC-2 might sense cellular energy status and cellular stress by its carboxyterminal cystathionine-beta-synthase (CBS) domains and by its molecular interaction with the heat shock protein Hsp90, respectively. In mature human and mouse erythrocytes, ClC-2 is activated by oxidative stress and by malaria infection. This article describes possible function of erythrocyte ClC-2 channels for the programmed death of oxidatively injured erythrocytes and for the regulatory volume decrease of malaria-infected erythrocytes.

Keywords: Patch-clamp whole cell recording, red blood cell, chloride channel, oxidative stress, cystathionine-beta-synthase domain.