Endocannabinoid-like compounds as modulators of the cardiac kv7.1/KCNE1 channel

Abstract

The cardiac voltage-gated potassium channel Kv7.1/KCNE1 has an important role in the ventricular cardiac action potential, where it contributes to the repolarization phase. Loss-of-function mutations in the genes encoding for Kv7.1/KCNE1 have been functionally linked to the arrythmia long QT syndrome. Up to 30% of individuals with some of the mentioned inherited mutations are not well protected from suffering cardiac events, because there is no specific medication targeting the Kv7.1/KCNE1 channel.