potassium ion binding

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Binding to a potassium ion (K+). [GOC:mah]

Potassium ion binding is a molecular function that describes the interaction of a protein or other biomolecule with potassium ions (K+). Potassium ions are essential for a wide range of cellular processes, including nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and maintaining cell volume. The binding of potassium ions to proteins can occur through a variety of mechanisms, including electrostatic interactions, hydrogen bonding, and coordination with specific amino acid residues. The specific residues involved in potassium ion binding can vary depending on the protein, but common residues include:

* **Aspartic acid (Asp)**
* **Glutamic acid (Glu)**
* **Lysine (Lys)**
* **Arginine (Arg)**
* **Histidine (His)**

These residues often form a specific binding site that allows the potassium ion to interact with the protein in a controlled and regulated manner. The binding of potassium ions can induce conformational changes in the protein, leading to changes in its activity or function. This is often seen in ion channels, where the binding of potassium ions to specific sites can open or close the channel, allowing or preventing the flow of potassium ions across the cell membrane.

The molecular function of potassium ion binding is therefore crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis and enabling a variety of biological processes.'
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Proteins (10)

Compounds (402)