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GlossaryPotassium Channel Openers (KCOs)

drugs that activate potassium channels, aiding in cell stabilization

Potassium Channel Openers (KCOs) are a class of drugs that activate potassium channels in cell membranes, allowing potassium ions to flow out of the cell. This action helps to stabilize the cell's electrical activity and can lead to muscle relaxation, vasodilation, and other physiological effects. They are used in various medical treatments, including managing hypertension and certain types of hair loss, such as androgenetic alopecia, by promoting blood flow and nutrient delivery to hair follicles.

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research Potassium Channel Therapeutics at the Bedside

119 citations, June 2005 in “Journal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology”

Potassium channel openers are effective in treating heart conditions, high blood pressure, pulmonary diseases, bladder issues, and hair loss, but more selective drugs are needed.

research Potassium Channel Openers: Pharmacological and Clinical Aspects

119 citations, October 1992 in “Fundamental & Clinical Pharmacology”

Potassium channel openers could help treat cardiovascular diseases and asthma but require better targeting to specific tissues for effective use.

research Potassium Channel Openers: Therapeutic Potential in Cardiology and Medicine

25 citations, December 2001 in “Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy”

Potassium channel openers show promise for treating heart disease and other conditions, but more research is needed to fully understand their effects and safety.

research K ATP Channels and Cardiovascular Disease

144 citations, March 2013 in “Circulation Research”

K_ATP channel gene mutations are linked to heart diseases, but more research is needed to understand the connection and treatment potential.

research The Emerging Structural Pharmacology of ATP-Sensitive Potassium Channels

5 citations, September 2022 in “Molecular pharmacology”

KATP channels are important for energy balance and are targeted by drugs for diabetes, hypoglycemia, hypertension, and hair loss.

Rapid Characterization of the Functional and Pharmacological Consequences of Cantú Syndrome KATP Channel Mutations in Intact Cells

research Rapid Characterization of the Functional and Pharmacological Consequences of Cantú Syndrome KATP Channel Mutations in Intact Cells

1 citations, August 2023 in “The journal of pharmacology and experimental therapeutics/The Journal of pharmacology and experimental therapeutics”

Kir6.1 mutations in Cantú syndrome increase channel sensitivity and hyperpolarization, while SUR2B mutations do not.