KCNMA1, a pore-forming α-subunit of BK channels, regulates insulin signalling in mature adipocytes

Abstract

KCNMA1 is a pore-forming α-subunit of the large conductance Ca2+- and voltage-activated K+ channels, referred to as BK channels, which play key roles in various physiological functions. However, the role of KCNMA1 in mature adipocytes remains unclear. In this study, we reveal that kcnma1 expression is downregulated in white adipose tissue of mice fed a high-fat diet and in hypertrophied adipocytes. Furthermore, inhibition of kcnma1 expression or treatment with a BK channel blocker attenuated insulin-induced Akt phosphorylation in mature adipocytes. These results strongly indicate that KCNMA1 contributes to the regulation of insulin signalling in mature adipocytes.