The availability of potassium to the plant is highly variable, due to complex soil dynamics, which are strongly influenced by root-soil interactions. A low plant potassium status triggers expression of high affinity K+ transporters, up-regulates some K+ channels, and activates signalling cascades, some of which are similar to those involved in wounding and other stress responses. The molecules ...

Here, we present the draft genome of Haladaptatus sp. strain R4, a halophilic archaea that produces an orange-pink pigment and is capable of growing in a wide salinity range. The genome assembly shows genes for arsenic resistance, siderophore production, trehalose and glycine betaine biosynthesis, uptake and transporters of sodium, potassium, and chloride ions.

Maintenance of extracellular K(+) concentration within a narrow range is vital for numerous cell functions, particularly electrical excitability of heart and muscle. Potassium homeostasis during intermittent ingestion of K(+) involves rapid redistribution of K(+) into the intracellular space to minimize increases in extracellular K(+) concentration, and ultimate elimination of the K(+) load by ...

In the central nervous system, glutamate transporters terminate the actions of this neurotransmitter by concentrating it into cells surrounding the synapse by a process involving sodium and proton cotransport followed by countertransport of potassium. These transporters contain two oppositely oriented helical hairpins 1 and 2. Hairpin 1 originates from the cytoplasm, but its tip is close to tha...

Ion transport is the fundamental factor determining salinity tolerance in plants. The Review starts from differences in ion transport between salt tolerant halophytes and salt-sensitive plants with an emphasis on transport of potassium and sodium via plasma membranes. The comparison provides introductory information for increasing salinity tolerance. Effects of salt stress on ion transport prop...

The effects of mangiferin on uric acid excretion, kidney function and related renal transporters were investigated in hyperuricemic mice induced by potassium oxonate. Mice were divided into normal control group, and 5 hyperuricemic groups with model control, 50, 100, and 200 mg x kg(-1) mangiferin, and 5 mg x kg(-1) allopurinol. Mice were administered by gavage once daily with 250 mg x kg(-1) p...