Potassium channels along the nephron.

The K+ channels that are present in three different nephron segments, the Necturus proximal, Amphiuma early distal (diluting segment), and rabbit collecting tubule have been examined. Ca2+-sensitive K+ channels were present in the apical membranes of the cells lining all these segments. The channels were all voltage-sensitive and their open probability increased with membrane depolarization. Because of the ubiquitous distribution, it is suggested that this channel is responsible for K+ secretion by the nephron and that the same intracellular regulators act throughout the various segments. Basolateral K+ channels have been examined only in Necturus proximal tubules. This channel is apparently insensitive to Ca2+; the voltage dependence is exactly opposite to that of the apical K+ channels; that is, hyperpolarizing potentials caused an increase in open probability. These differences in regulatory factors permit the independent regulation of apical and basolateral membrane K+ permeabilities that must occur in renal cells.