Potassium Channels in Neuropsychiatric Disorders

Abstract

The cloning and characterisation of the Drosophila melanogaster Shaker potassium channel has led to the discovery of many diverse potassium channel types. It has only recently been appreciated that a number of disorders are the result of mutations in potassium channel sequences or due to potassium channel dysfunction. Compounds that modulate potassium channels have been tested for efficacy in a variety of peripheral and central diseases. Agents that block potassium channels have been advocated for the treatment of a number of CNS disorders such as multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease and chronic CNS trauma. Although these compounds have some beneficial effects, especially in multiple sclerosis, at present their use appears to be limited. Potassium channel activators represent a relatively new class of drugs that has great potential for the treatment of a variety of CNS disorders, particularly ischaemia and acute CNS trauma. Some novel applications of these agents have recently been suggested, including their use in Alzheimer’s disease and schizophrenia.