Pharmacological Characterization of the Zinc-Activated Channel: A Cys-Loop Receptor Gated by Zn2+, Cu2+ And Protons

The Cys-loop receptor (CLR) family is comprised of pentameric ligand-gated ion channels recognized for their importance for many physiological and pathophysiological functions, including the GABA A, nicotinic acetylcholine, glycine and 5-HT 3 receptors. In 2003, a new CLR member was discovered: the Zinc-Activated Channel (ZAC). Functional studies revealed that ZAC could be activated by zinc, copper(II) and protons. The physiological roles of ZAC are yet to be defined