Novel roles for hERG K(+) channels in cell proliferation and apoptosis
J Jehle1, P A Schweizer, H A Katus
1Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany.
Abstract:
The human ether-a-go-go-related gene potassium channel (hERG, Kv11.1, KCNH2) has an essential role in cardiac action potential repolarization. Electrical dysfunction of the voltage-sensitive ion channel is associated with potentially lethal ventricular arrhythmias in humans. hERG K(+) channels are also expressed in a variety of cancer cells where they control cell proliferation and apoptosis. In this review, we discuss molecular mechanisms of hERG-associated cell cycle regulation and cell death. In addition, the significance of hERG K(+) channels as future drug target in anticancer therapy is highlighted.
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