Key result
BK channel modulators show therapeutic potential for epilepsy by targeting dual pro- and antiepileptic pathways.
Why the study?
The role of BK channels in epilepsy is controversial due to their unique ability to both augment and decrease neuronal excitability, necessitating further investigation.
BK channels have a complex, dichotomous role in epilepsy, making them a controversial but potential target for specific modulators.
Answers are grounded in this paper and cite their sources.
BK channel complexity in epilepsy precludes simple excitatory/inhibitory labels; leaves open precise therapeutic targeting for future studies.
BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE: The large conductance calcium-activated potassium (BK) channel, extensively distributed in the central nervous system (CNS), is considered as a vital player in the pathogenesis of epilepsy, with evidence implicating derangement of K+ as well as regulating action potential shape and duration. However, unlike other channels implicated in epilepsy whose function in neurons could clearly be labeled "excitatory" or "inhibitory", the unique physiological behavior of the BK channel allows it to both augment and decrease the excitability of neurons. Thus, the role of BK in epilepsy is controversial so far, and a growing area of intense investigation. CONCLUSION: Here, this review aims to highlight recent discoveries on the dichotomous role of BK channels in epilepsy, focusing on relevant BK-dependent pro- as well as antiepileptic pathways, and discuss the potential of BK specific modulators for the treatment of epilepsy.
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Zhu et al. (2018) conducted a review in Epilepsy. BK channels and BK specific modulators was evaluated. This review highlights the dichotomous role of BK channels in epilepsy, focusing on pro- and antiepileptic pathways and the potential of BK specific modulators for treatment.
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