Atrial-Selective Potassium Channel Blockers.
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Atrial-selective potassium (K(+)) channel blockers may represent a novel therapeutic target. The best validated atrial-specific ion currents are the acetylcholine-activated inward-rectifier K(+) current IK,ACh and ultrarapidly activating delayed-rectifier K(+) current IKur. Two-pore domain and small-conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels and Kv1.1 channels may also contribute to the atrial repolarization. We review the molecular and electrophysiologic characteristics of atrial-selective K(+) channels and their potential pathophysiologic role in AF. We summarize currently available K(+) channel blockers focusing on the most important compounds.
Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, University Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, Essen 45122, Germany.
Niels
N
Voigt
Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, University Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, Essen 45122, Germany. Electronic address: dobromir.dobrev@uk-essen.de.
Dobromir
D
Dobrev
D000818:Animals; D001281:Atrial Fibrillation; D006325:Heart Atria / Q000737:chemistry / Q000166:cytology / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D051379:Mice; D008958:Models, Molecular; D032383:Myocytes, Cardiac / Q000737:chemistry / Q000166:cytology / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism; D026902:Potassium Channel Blockers; D015221:Potassium Channels
D026902:Potassium Channel Blockers; D015221:Potassium Channels
Atrial fibrillation; I(K,ACh); I(Kur); K2P channels; Kv1.1 channels; SK channels