Referenced in: none

Automatically associated channels: Kv7.2 , Kv7.3 , Kv7.5

Title: A potassium channel, the M-channel, as a therapeutic target.

Authors: Toral S Surti, Lily Y Jan

Journal, date & volume: , 2005 Jul , 6, 704-11

PubMed link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16044666

Abstract
Compounds that stimulate or inhibit M-channels (ie, voltage-gated potassium channels formed by KCNQ2, KCNQ3 and KCNQ5) have been evaluated in clinical trials for epilepsy, stroke and Alzheimer's disease. The importance of M-channel function in reducing neuronal excitability is underscored by the finding that KCNQ2/3 mutations causing mild reduction of M-channel activity are linked to neonatal epilepsy. M-channel openers decrease the hyperexcitability responsible for epileptic seizures, neuropathic pain and migraine. Conversely, M-channel blockers may enhance cognitive functions. The M-channel has thus emerged as a promising target for treating epilepsy, stroke, migraine, pain, dementia, anxiety and bipolar disorder.