Bacterial Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel (bacterial VGSC)

Bacterial voltage-gated sodium channels are integral membrane proteins that selectively conduct sodium ions across the cell membrane in response to changes in membrane potential. They are structurally simpler homologs of mammalian VGSCs and serve as valuable model systems for understanding the structure, function, and pharmacology of these important ion channels, particularly regarding ion selectivity, gating mechanisms, and drug interactions. While not direct therapeutic targets themselves, they provide crucial insights applicable to human health and disease.

Other names

Bacterial sodium channel proteinNavMs (example from Magnetococcus sp.)

Channel blockade, modulation of channel gating