More than just pores

Voltage-gated ion channels are membrane pores that sense changes in local charge distribution across membranes. They open and close in response, ushering ions into and out of cells to propagate electrical signals. These channels form complexes with kinases. The ion channels help nerve cell membranes return to their resting state after a nerve impulse. The beta-subunits in the ion channels mediate cell adhesion resulting in their interaction with kinases.