KCNQ potassium channels (Kv7 channels)

KCNQ potassium channels, also known as Kv7 channels, are a subfamily of voltage-gated potassium channels encoded by KCNQ genes. They are crucial regulators of cellular electrical activity by stabilizing and regulating the membrane resting potential. The family consists of five members (KCNQ1-5) forming tetrameric structures with voltage sensing and pore domains. KCNQ1 (Kv7.1) is primarily expressed in cardiac and epithelial cells, involved in cardiac repolarization and epithelial water/salt transport. KCNQ2-5 (Kv7.2-5) are mainly found in the nervous system and sensory cells, constituting the M-channel, which regulates neuronal excitability. Mutations in KCNQ genes are associated with various genetic disorders, including cardiac arrhythmias (LQTS1), deafness, epilepsy, and gastro-oesophageal adenocarcinoma. Due to their significant roles in physiological processes and disease states, KCNQ channels are considered important therapeutic targets, with modulators like activators (e.g., Retigabine) and inhibitors being developed.

Other names

Kv7 channelsKv7.1Kv7.2Kv7.3Kv7.4Kv7.5M-channel

Modulation of Kv7 channel activity, typically through activation or inhibition, to regulate potassium ion flow across cell membranes, thereby influencing cellular electrical excitability and membrane potential.