The beta1 subunit of the Ca2+-sensitive K+ channel protects against hypertension

Abstract

Previous animal studies have demonstrated that the loss of the beta(1) subunit of the large-conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) (BK) channel leads to hypertension. A new study demonstrates that a gain in beta(1) subunit function is associated with protection against diastolic hypertension in humans, underscoring the importance of the beta(1) subunit and the BK channel in the regulation of vascular resistance.