mutations in potassium channels have been linked to abnormal heart rhythms and epilepsy. you find a mutation in the selectivity filter that allow partially hydrated cargo to enter the channel.

Question

1- How can this impact channel specificity?

2- how would this impact the cell?

Answer 1

Great question! I know you might not be looking for an answer anymore, but it can't hurt to discuss.

Yes absolutely, mutations in ion channels can alter how the heart is suppose to function. Ideally, we need to be able to manage when and where ions in the heart are coming from, this is what we call depolarization and repolarization. When something inhibits an ion channel, it makes this function is interrupted and your heart is stuck in a position where the electrical charge is thrown off which is why you will see abnormal heart rhythms.

1. Now, with something like this you would hope there is a fair amount of specificity in fact a good portion of ion channels are extremely specific. Hypothetically if this mutation occurs, I would venture to guess that while there would be SOME effect, but we aren't dealing with the ion channel suddenly accepting protein or lipid content. It may make the ion channel less specific between similar ions but ultimately it wouldn't change the TYPE of particle accepted.
2. On the same topic of specificity, I think we must discuss the importance of said Ion channel, if this is something like a hERG ion channel which deals with the heart and the channel is accepting all ions with the same charge then your dealing with cells that have unbalanced charge distribution. As for your cells, you can expect them not to behave as they should in terms of aiding in tensing heart muscle.