[Physiological properties and possible correction of adenosine triphosphate-sensitive potassium channel function]

Unique function of ATP-sensitive K channels (K(ATP)) is maintenance of interrelation between a metabolism and excitability of cells of various bodies and fabrics. In smooth muscle cells activation KP channels lead to vasodilatation, in beta-cells of a pancreas these channels play a role in interface of excitability of a membrane and secretion of insulin. Sulfonylurea drugs lowering a level of glucose in blood which use for treatment of a 2 type diabetes,--influence, contacting SUR 1 subunit and oppressing thus a K(ATP) current. It leads to membranes depolarisation, to Ca2+ entrance in cells and secretions of insulin. As opposed to this, diazoxide and pinacidil which reduce allocation of insulin, reduce arterial pressure, are specific K(ATP) activators. These preparations render therapeutic effects, stimulating K(ATP) and as consequence, limit increase of a level intracellular Ca2+ at depolarisation. At an ischemia of heart activation of K(ATP) channels reduces duration of potential of action, and it leads to reduction of Ca2+ entrance and renders cardio protective action. For last years significant successes in understanding of molecular mechanisms, determines K(ATP) channels activity, and in finding-out of their role in physiological and pathological processes are achieved. In this review of the literature the basic achievements in this area, and also problems which should be solved are considered.