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Published on: October 18, 2018
Heart rate reduction via selective 'funny' channel blockers
Annalisa Bucchi1, Andrea Barbuti, Mirko Baruscotti
1Laboratory of Molecular Physiology and Neurobiology, Department of Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Milan, via Celoria 26, Milano, Italy.
The 'funny' current (f-channel) regulates heart rate. Researchers developed heart rate-reducing drugs, like ivabradine, by blocking these channels, offering new therapeutic options.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- The 'funny' current (f-channel) is crucial for cardiac pacemaker activity and heart rate regulation.
- Autonomic nervous system modulation of heart rate involves the 'funny' current.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify molecules that selectively target the 'funny' current.
- To develop pharmacological tools for controlling heart rate.
Main Methods:
- Discovery and development of novel drug candidates.
- Pharmacological blockade of f-channels.
Main Results:
- A new class of heart rate-reducing agents was successfully developed.
- Ivabradine, an f-channel blocker, is marketed for stable angina treatment.
Conclusions:
- Selective blockade of 'funny' channels offers a viable strategy for heart rate control.
- Further exploration of 'funny' channel pharmacology presents a promising frontier in cardiovascular medicine.
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