title: Are big potassium-type Ca(2+)-activated potassium channels a viable target for the treatment of epilepsy?
abstract: BACKGROUND
  BK (big potassium) channels are Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels widely expressed in mammalian cells. They are extensively distributed in the CNS, the most abundant level being found in brain areas largely involved in epilepsy, namely cortex, hippocampus, piriform cortex, and other limbic structures. BK channels control action potential shape/duration, thereby regulating membrane excitability and Ca(2+) signaling.
  
  
  METHODS
  The potassium channel superfamily represents a rich source of potential targets for therapeutic intervention in epilepsy. Some studies have identified alterations in BK channel function, therefore, supporting the development of drugs acting on these channels for epilepsy treatment.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The actual sketch is intriguing and controversial, since mechanisms altering the physiological role of BK channels leading to either a loss- or gain-of-function have both been linked to seizure onset. Not many studies have been performed to unravel the efficacy of drugs acting on these channels as potential antiepileptics; however, paradoxically, efficacy has been demonstrated for both BK channel openers and blockers. Furthermore, their potential usefulness in preventing epileptogenesis has not been investigated at all. Substantial data on risks and benefits of modulating these channels are urgently needed to draw a definitive conclusion on whether BK channels are a viable future target for the treatment of epilepsy.
authors.affiliation: University "Magna Graecia" of Catanzaro, School of Medicine, Science of Health Department , Catanzaro , Italy.
authors.forename: Antonio
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Leo
authors.forename: Rita
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Citraro
authors.forename: Andrew
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Constanti
authors.forename: Giovambattista
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: De Sarro
authors.forename: Emilio
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Russo
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000494:pharmacology*; D001921:Brain / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology; D002118:Calcium / Q000378:metabolism; D020013:Calcium Signaling / Q000502:physiology; D004827:Epilepsy / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D051036:Large-Conductance Calcium-Activated Potassium Channels / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000378:metabolism; D058990:Molecular Targeted Therapy
chemical_list: D000927:Anticonvulsants; D051036:Large-Conductance Calcium-Activated Potassium Channels; D002118:Calcium
keywords: antiepileptic drug; big potassium channel modulators; big potassium channels; epilepsy; seizures