It has been demonstrated by several groups that ablation of the β1 subunit in mice leads to desensitization to Ca2+ and functional uncoupling of BK channels from Ca2+ sparks, causing membrane depolarization, increases in arterial tone, and eventually hypertension (Brenner et al., 2000; Pluger et al., 2000). This evidence concerns the gene KCNMA1 and hypertensive disorder.