Voltage-gated potassium channel (Delayed rectifier) (Kv channel (Delayed rectifier))

The delayed rectifier potassium current (IK) is a fundamental voltage-gated current responsible for the repolarization phase of action potentials in excitable cells, including NG108-15 neuroblastoma x glioma hybrid cells and cerebellar granule neurons. In these specific cell types, the current is primarily mediated by channels from the Kv2 (notably Kv2.1/KCNB1) and Kv3 (notably Kv3.1/KCNC1) families, which open with a characteristic delay following membrane depolarization. This delayed activation allows the initial sodium influx to trigger an action potential before the potassium efflux returns the membrane to its resting potential. Dysregulation of these channels is linked to various neurological disorders, such as epilepsy and ataxia, due to their critical role in controlling neuronal firing frequency and excitability. Pharmacological modulation of IK using blockers like tetraethylammonium or specific Kv channel modulators represents a strategy for treating hyperexcitability disorders.

Other names

Delayed rectifier potassium currentIKVoltage-gated potassium channel subfamily B member 1Kv2.1Voltage-gated potassium channel subfamily C member 1Kv3.1

Modulation of potassium ion efflux through the channel pore to regulate membrane potential and cellular excitability.