A review of TRK1 function in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Abstract

The TRK1 gene encodes for Trk1p, which serves as the main potassium ion importer in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Trk1p is responsible for maintaining high intracellular potassium levels necessary for cell growth. Mutant trk1∆ cells experience potassium starvation due to a decreased ability to adjust potassium acquisition based on internal and extracellular concentrations, which limits cell growth. Additionally, limited potassium uptake has inhibitory effects on proton expulsion by Pma1 H+-ATPase, resulting in acidic cytosolic conditions, susceptibility to toxic cations, and membrane hyperpolarization in trk1∆ cells. This review discusses the known functions of the TRK1 gene in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and investigates how Trk1p expression interacts with other biochemical processes and how cell functions are affected by the trk1∆ mutant.