Tacrine modulates Kv2.1 channel gene expression and cell proliferation.

: Besides as a cholinesterase (ChE) inhibitor, tacrine is able to act on multiple targets such as nicotinic receptors (nAChRs) and voltage-gated K (Kv) channels. Kv2.1, a Kv channel subunit underlying delayed rectifier currents with slow kinetics of inactivation, is highly expressed in the mammalian brain, especially in the hippocampus.

The Tau-Induced Reduction of mRNA Levels of Kv Channels in Human Neuroblastoma SK-N-SH Cells.

Previous findings indicated that microtubule-binding protein tau and voltage-gated K(+) (Kv) channels exhibit a regulatory role in cell proliferation. However, the possible interaction of tau with Kv channels remained obscure. In this report, transfection of tau plasmids into human neuroblastoma SK-N-SH cells caused a significant reduction in the messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of several Kv channels, including Kv2.

The Inhibitory Effects of Ca2+ Channel Blocker Nifedipine on Rat Kv2.1 Potassium Channels.

It is well documented that nifedipine, a commonly used dihydropyridine Ca2+ channel blocker, has also significant interactions with voltage-gated K+ (Kv) channels. But to date, little is known whether nifedipine exerted an action on Kv2.1 channels, a member of the Shab subfamily with slow inactivation.