Towards the Development of AgoKirs: New Pharmacological Activators to Study Kir2.x Channel and Target Cardiac Disease

The document discussed the role of Kir2.x family inward rectifier potassium ion channels in maintaining stable resting membrane potential and their involvement in cardiac disease when there is a loss of function. It highlighted the lack of specific Kir2.x channel activators, which impedes research and treatment. The study identified twelve compounds, including approved drugs, that activate IK1 channels off-target, providing insights for developing AgoKirs, agonists of Kir channels. The review categorized these compounds as direct or indirect activators and explored their potential as starting points for drug development, considering safety concerns, particularly regarding cardiac and skeletal muscle effects. The potential application of AgoKirs was compared to current therapies for cystic fibrosis.