The Voltage-Gated Potassium Channel Kv2.1 as a Multicellular Drug Target

Voltage-gated potassium (K+; Kv) channels are critical homeostatic regulators of ionic equilibrium. The diversity of channel subtypes and expression profiles makes them interesting drug targets. The Kv2.1 channel, encoded by the KCNB1 gene, has a multitude of physiological roles from setting neuronal firing frequency to influencing viral replication. Here we look at the biophysical fingerprint of the Kv2.1 channel and its role in a variety of unique cellular systems. These cellular systems provide a wealth of evidence for modulating Kv2.1 to offer novel avenues to treat a range of disease from neurological disorders to diabetes. Existing pharmacological compounds that target Kv2.1 function are highlighted, along with presenting differential pharmacological approaches to modulate Kv2.1 function. This chapter reveals the Kv2.1 channel to be an exciting drug target that could afford treatment options in complex diseases affecting ionic homeostasis; future research should be dedicated to delivering the drug in the appropriate manner to provide novel compounds and repurpose existing medicines.