Human ether-à-go-go-related gene potassium channel (hERG potassium channel, KCNH2) (hERG (sometimes also Kv11.1))

The human ether-à-go-go-related gene potassium channel (hERG; encoded by KCNH2) is a voltage-gated potassium channel that forms the rapid component of the delayed rectifier potassium current (IKr) in cardiac myocytes[1][3][6][7]. It is essential for the repolarization phase of the cardiac action potential. Dysfunction due to genetic mutations or drug-induced inhibition leads to long QT syndrome, increasing the risk of ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death[3][4][7]. hERG is also aberrantly expressed in a broad spectrum of cancers (including neural, epithelial, and hematopoietic), where it influences cell proliferation, survival, invasiveness, and metastasis, making it a target for oncology as well as cardiology[2]. Numerous structurally diverse drugs developed for unrelated purposes have been found to interact with hERG channels, causing significant safety issues and leading to withdrawal or restricted use of several drugs[3]. Monitoring the QT interval on ECG is a key biomarker in patients exposed to potential hERG blockers to mitigate safety risks.

Other names

hERGKv11.1KCNH2ERG1 potassium channelEther-à-go-go potassium channel

Channel blockade (inhibition of potassium current, leading to prolonged action potential); Channel activation (increasing potassium current, shortening action potential duration)