Potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily Q member 5 (KCNQ5) (KCNQ5)

Potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily Q member 5 (KCNQ5), also known as Kv7.5, is a crucial transmembrane protein that forms potassium channels responsible for the M-current, a slow-activating and non-inactivating current that regulates neuronal excitability (UniProt Q9NR82). By controlling the resting membrane potential and the threshold for action potential firing, KCNQ5 prevents neuronal over-excitation in the hippocampus and cortex. Beyond the central nervous system, KCNQ5 is expressed in vascular smooth muscle, where it plays a significant role in maintaining vascular tone and regulating blood pressure (PMID: 30104301). Genetic mutations in KCNQ5 have been identified as causes of developmental and epileptic encephalopathy and intellectual disability, highlighting its importance in brain development and function (PMID: 28842496). Pharmacologically, KCNQ5 is targeted by several anticonvulsants and analgesics, such as retigabine, which act as openers to hyperpolarize membranes and reduce excitability. Current therapeutic research focuses on developing subtype-selective KCNQ5 modulators to treat hypertension and cognitive disorders with improved safety profiles compared to non-selective agents.

Other names

Kv7.5KQT-like 5Potassium channel protein KQT5

Positive allosteric modulation (channel opening) to increase potassium efflux and hyperpolarize the cell membrane, or inhibition (channel blocking) to increase excitability.