Molecular cloning of a member of a third class of Shaker-family K+ channel genes in mammals.

We report the cloning of RKShIIIA, a cDNA encoding a K+ channel sequence expressed in rat brain. This cDNA encodes K+ channel subunits that express in Xenopus oocytes a slow, 4-aminopyridine- and tetraethylammonium-sensitive, delayed rectifier-type K+ channel activated by large membrane depolarizations. This gene belongs to the Shaker (Sh) family of K+ channel genes, since the predicted protein has the same overall structure and shows significant homology to other members of this family. However, RKShIIIA cannot be assigned to either of the two known classes of Sh-family genes in mammals based on sequence analysis. Notable features of the RKShIIIA protein product include a probable cytoplasmic loop rich in prolines and a stretch very homologous to the Drosophila Shaw protein, both near the amino terminus.