Potassium channel openers: therapeutic potential in cardiology and medicine

Abstract

Potassium (K⁺) channel openers (KCOs) define a class of chemically diverse agents that share a common molecular target, the metabolism-regulated ATP-sensitive K⁺ (K_ATP) channel. In view of the unique function that K_ATP channels play in the maintenance of cellular homeostasis, this novel class of ion channel modulators adds to existent pharmacotherapy with potential in promoting cellular protection under conditions of metabolic stress. Indeed, experimental studies have demonstrated broad therapeutic potential for KCOs, including roles as cardioprotective agents, vasodilators, bronchodilators, bladder relaxants, anti-epileptics, insulin secretagogues and promoters of hair growth. However, clinical experience with these drugs is limited and their place in patient management needs to be fully established.

• alopecia
• angina pectoris
• asthma
• ATP-sensitive potassium channels
• hypertension
• impotence
• ischaemic heart disease
• neuroprotection
• peripheral vascular disease