Evolution towards higher unitary conductance in mammals makes BK channels more efficient and precise.

Mammalian BK channels with ~250 pS conductance are more efficient and precise in neuronal activation than invertebrate channels with lower conductance.

• Why it matters: Understanding how evolutionary increases in BK channel conductance improve neuronal function can shed light on the development of advanced motor control and neuronal processing in mammals.
• What they did: The study used computational models to compare calcium activation and neuronal effects of high versus low conductance BK channels, focusing on their efficiency and competition for calcium.
• The result: High conductance channels activate more effectively, generate stronger currents, and enhance spike-timing precision, supporting their role in refined motor and neuronal functions in mammals.