Studying Kv channels function using computational methods

Abstract

In recent years, molecular modeling techniques, combined with MD simulations, provided significant insights on voltage-gated (Kv) potassium channels intrinsic properties. Among the success stories are the highlight of molecular level details of the effects of mutations, the unraveling of several metastable intermediate states, and the influence of a particular lipid, PIP2, in the stability and the modulation of Kv channel function. These computational studies offered a detailed view that could not have been reached through experimental studies alone. With the increase of cross disciplinary studies, numerous experiments provided validation of these computational results, which endows an increase in the reliability of molecular modeling for the study of Kv channels. This chapter offers a description of the main techniques used to model Kv channels at the atomistic level.