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Regulation of microvascular function by voltage‐gated potassium channels: New tricks for an “ancient” dog
Author(s) -
Nystoriak Matthew A.,
Navedo Manuel F.
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
microcirculation
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.793
H-Index - 83
eISSN - 1549-8719
pISSN - 1073-9688
DOI - 10.1111/micc.12435
Subject(s) - ion channel , potassium channel , sarcolemma , microcirculation , depolarization , neuroscience , membrane potential , limiting , chemistry , biophysics , biology , microbiology and biotechnology , medicine , myocyte , biochemistry , engineering , mechanical engineering , receptor
Arterial tone is tightly regulated by a variety of potassium (K + ) permeable ion channels at the sarcolemma of vascular smooth muscle cells. In particular, several types of K V channels provide a significant hyperpolarizing influence and serve to oppose pressure and agonist‐induced membrane depolarization to promote smooth muscle relaxation and augmentation of vascular diameter and blood flow. In recent years, a number of studies have underscored previously unknown roles for particular K V subunits, new modes of channel regulation, and distinct cellular functions for these channels during physiological and pathological conditions. In this overview, we highlight articles contained in this Special Topics Issue that focus on the latest, most exciting advancements in the field of K V channels in the microcirculation. The collection of articles aims to highlight important new discoveries and controversies in the field of vascular K V channels as well as to shed light on key questions that require additional investigation.