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Abstract

The present invention relates to nucleic acid sequences and isolated proteins which are novel interaction partners for inwardly rectifying potassium channels (Kirs), in particular G protein-coupled inwardly rectifying potassium channels (GIRKs). These interaction partners form protein complexes together with Kirs and GIRKs. The invention further relates to a charged domain of the novel interaction partners which binds to the complex intracellular region of Kirs and influences the activity of Kirs in general or of GIRKS in particular. The invention additionally relates to protein complexes composed of interaction partners and inwardly rectifying potassium channels, nucleic acid sequences or recombinant nucleic acid constructs which code for such proteins or domains, and the uses thereof. The invention additionally relates to protein complexes composed of the novel proteins with other proteins. The invention also relates to host organisms, specifically transgenic animals, which comprise the novel nucleic acid sequences or the recombinant nucleic acid constructs, and to mono- or polyclonal antibodies directed against the isolated proteins. The invention additionally relates to methods for discovering partners, that is to say low or high molecular weight substances which bind specifically to the novel interaction partners.

First Claim