A single NaK channel conformation is not enough for non-selective ion conduction

Abstract

NaK is a non-selective cation channel that conducts sodium (Na+) and potassium (K+) equally well. Here authors use ssNMR and MD simulations to show that the selectivity filter of NaK adopts two conformations in the absence of ions, one of which is preferred by Na+ and the other by K+.