Synthetic K+ Channels Constructed by Rebuilding the Core Modules of Natural K+ Channels in an Artificial System

Abstract Different types of natural K + channels share similar core modules and cation permeability characteristics. In this study, we have developed novel artificial K + channels by rebuilding the core modules of natural K + channels in artificial systems. All the channels displayed high selectivity for K + over Na + and exhibited a selectivity sequence of K + ≈Rb + during the transport process, which is highly consistent with the cation permeability characteristics of natural K + channels. More importantly, these artificial channels could be efficiently inserted into cell membranes and mediate the transmembrane transport of K + , disrupting the cellular K + homeostasis and eventually triggering the apoptosis of cells. These findings demonstrate that, by rebuilding the core modules of natural K + channels in artificial systems, the structures, transport behaviors, and physiological functions of natural K + channels can be mimicked in synthetic channels.