Interaction of mitochondrial potassium channels with the permeability transition pore

Three types of potassium channels cooperate with the permeability transition pore (PTP) in the inner mitochondrial membranes of various tissues, mtK(ATP), mtBK, and mtKv1.3. While the latter two share similarities with their plasma membrane counterparts, mtK(ATP) exhibits considerable differences with the plasma membrane K(ATP)-channel. One important function seems to be suppression of release of proapototic substances from mitochondria through the PTP. Open potassium channels tend to keep the PTP closed thus acting as antiapoptotic. Nevertheless, in their mode of action there are considerable differences among them. This review introduces three K+-channels and the PTP, and discusses known facts about their interaction.