Henry J P, Chich J F, Goldschmidt D, Thieffry M
Unité de Neurobiologie Physico-Chimique, C.N.R.S., Institut de Biologie Physico-Chimique, Paris.
C R Acad Sci III. 1989;309(4):87-92.
A 13-residue peptide, including the sequence of the amino terminal end of cytochrome c oxidase subunit IV precursor, blocks a cationic channel from mitochondrial membranes. The effect is reversible and voltage-dependent. The blocking properties suggest that the peptide plugs the pore. Furthermore, when the transmembrane potential favours transfer, the peptide appears to be able to cross the channel.