Potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily C member 1 (Kv3.1) and Potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily C member 2 (Kv3.2) (Kv3.1 (for KCNC1), Kv3.2 (for KCNC2))

Kv3.1 (Potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily C member 1) and Kv3.2 (Potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily C member 2) are high-threshold, voltage-gated potassium channels that play a crucial role in enabling rapid neuronal firing, particularly in fast-spiking interneurons in the cortex, hippocampus, and cerebellum[2][3][5]. Their tetrameric channel structure allows for very fast activation and deactivation, supporting high-frequency neuronal activity essential for precise timing in neural circuits involved in movement, sensory processing, and cognition[2][5][7]. Mutations in either KCNC1 or KCNC2 disrupt this critical function, which can result in diseases such as epilepsy, ataxia, and developmental disabilities[3][4][6]. Kv3.1 and Kv3.2 channels are under investigation as targets for new therapeutic agents, especially for genetic and acquired epilepsies and neuropsychiatric disorders[6].

Other names

KCNC1Kv3.1aKv3.1bKCNC2Kv3.2aKv3.2bKv3.2cKv3.2d

Activation (potentiation) of channel to restore or enhance repolarization Inhibition to reduce neuronal excitability (potential anti-epileptic strategy)