Mechanism of Proarrhythmic Effects of Potassium Channel Blockers

Publication date: Available online 24 March 2016 Source:Cardiac Electrophysiology Clinics Author(s): Lasse Skibsbye, Ursula RavensTeaser Any disturbance of electrical impulse formation in the heart and of impulse conduction or action potential (AP) repolarization can lead to rhythm disorders. Potassium (K+) channels play a prominent role in the AP repolarization process. In this review we describe the causes and mechanisms of proarrhythmic effects that arise as a response to blockers of cardiac K+ channels. The largest and chemically most diverse groups of compound targets are Kv11.1 (hERG) and Kv7.1 (KvLQT1) channels. Finally, the proarrhythmic propensity of atrial-selective K+ blockers inhibiting Kv1.5, Kir3.1/3.4, SK, and K2P channels is discussed.

Source: Cardiac Electrophysiology Clinics - March 23, 2016 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research