HUMAN RED-BLOOD-CELL VOLUME REGULATION - THE ROLE OF CALCIUM-ACTIVATED K+ CHANNELS

The role of calcium ions in the mammalian red blood cell volume regula tion is investigated using mathematical modelling. It is shown in the effect of Ca2+-activated K+ channels on the red blood cell volume stab ilization is rather strong. These channels functioning can provide a 5 -10 fold increase in the stabilization volume coefficient. This contri bution may be estimated exactly if the ration of maximal K+ channel pe rmeability to a Ca-binding constant of these channels is known. An exp eriment design which enables this ratio to be measured for intact red blood cells is suggested.