Role of Kir4.1 Channels in Aminoglycoside-Induced Ototoxicity of Hair Cells

Figure 9

Correlation of Kir4.1, NKCC1, and KCNQ4 in HEI-OC1 cells. Correlation between the main potassium channels Kir4.1, NKCC1, and KCNQ4. When NKCC1 is blocked, the Kir4.1 channel has compensatory action and allows increased influx of potassium into cells. Kir4.1 is normally an inwardly rectifying K⁺ potassium channel. However, when the KCNQ4 channel is blocked, Kir4.1 channel allows efflux of K⁺ instead of through the KCNQ4 channel.

(a)

(b)