Subtype-specific modulation of human K 7 channels by the anticonvulsant cannabidiol through a lipid-exposed pore-domain site.

Background And Purpose: Cannabidiol (CBD) is used clinically as an anticonvulsant. Its precise mechanism of action has remained unclear. CBD was recently demonstrated to enhance the activity of the neuronal K 7.

Subtype-specific responses of hKv7.4 and hKv7.5 channels to polyunsaturated fatty acids reveal an unconventional modulatory site and mechanism.

The K7.4 and K7.5 subtypes of voltage-gated potassium channels play a role in important physiological processes such as sound amplification in the cochlea and adjusting vascular smooth muscle tone.

Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids as Modulators of K7 Channels.

Voltage-gated potassium channels of the K7 family are expressed in many tissues. The physiological importance of K7 channels is evident from specific forms of disorders linked to dysfunctional K7 channels, including variants of epilepsy, cardiac arrhythmia and hearing impairment. Thus, understanding how K7 channels are regulated in the body is of great interest.