retains normal function in the face of such a large reduction of BK. Indeed, BK knockout mice, while able to survive, are seriously impaired (Sausbier et al., 2004). It is possible that the overall, relative shift to the STREX isoform, which has relatively high Ca sensitivity (Xie and McCobb, 1998), helps to maintain adequate levels of BK activity, while minimizing the effects of alcohol.
