Coronary microvascular Kv1 channels as regulatory sensors of intracellular pyridine nucleotide redox potential

摘要: Smooth muscle voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channels are important regulators of microvascular tone and tissue perfusion. Recent studies indicate that Kv1 represent a key component the physiological coupling between coronary blood flow myocardial oxygen demand. While mechanisms by which metabolic changes in heart transduced to alter channel gating promote vasodilation unclear, growing body evidence underscores pivotal role sensing cellular redox status. Here, we discuss current knowledge Kv regulation with respect pyridine nucleotide modulation function via ancillary Kvβ proteins as well direct activity reactive nitrogen species. We identify areas additional research address integration regulatory processes under altered pathophysiological conditions may reveal insights into novel treatment strategies for matching supply demand is compromised.