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regulate potassium ion flow based on cellular energy levels

ATP-sensitive potassium channels (KATP channels) are specialized proteins found in the cell membrane that help regulate the flow of potassium ions in and out of the cell. These channels are sensitive to the levels of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the cell's main energy currency, and they open or close in response to changes in ATP concentration. This mechanism allows the channels to play a crucial role in linking the cell's metabolic state to its electrical activity, which is important in various physiological processes such as insulin release, muscle contraction, and neuronal activity.

Related Terms

• potassium channels
• ion channels
• membrane transport proteins