Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 24, 2026

Nerve Excitability Assessment in Chemotherapy-induced Neurotoxicity
Published on: April 26, 2012
A possible link of oxaliplatin-induced neuropathy with potassium channel deficit
Alexander G Dimitrov1, Nonna A Dimitrova
1Institute of Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. Georgi Bonchev Str., Bl. 105, Sofia 1113, Bulgaria.
Introduction:
The neurotoxic side effects of oxaliplatin (a reference drug in the treatment of digestive tract tumors) can force suspension of treatment. The mechanisms of neuropathy are unclear. We aimed to simulate oxaliplatin-induced hyperactivity in myelinated axons (MA) based on published experimental data.
Methods:
A Hodgkin-Huxley-type multi-cable MA model was used, which took into account active internodal processes and accumulation of ions in MA with 21 nodes.
Results:
Even a very short (110-220 μm) internodal region devoid of potassium channels was sufficient to produce after-discharges in response to a saltatory action potential. An increase in the density of sodium channels, slowdown of their inactivation, and negative shifts along one node-internode region of the voltage dependence of sodium and potassium activation and of sodium inactivation induced no after-discharge.
Conclusion:
A combination of sodium channel blockers with drugs that obstruct the blockage of potassium channels or contribute to their opening could be effective in preventing oxaliplatin-induced "hyperexcitability."
Related Concept Videos
Antiepileptic Drugs: Potassium Channel Activators
Ezogabine has gained approval as an adjunctive treatment...
Voltage-gated Ion Channels
Generally, all voltage-gated ion channels have a 'voltage-sensing domain' that spans the lipid bilayer. The charged residues in the sensor move in response to the membrane potential changes that open the channel allowing ions movement. There are several types of...
Voltage-gated Ion Channels
Generally, all voltage-gated ion channels have a 'voltage-sensing domain' that spans the lipid bilayer. The charged residues in the sensor move in response to the membrane potential changes that open the channel allowing ions movement. There are several types of...
Ligand-Gated Ion Channel Receptor: Gating Mechanism
Non-gated Ion Channels
Compared to the gated ion channels, the non-gated channels, also known as leakage or passive channels, have no gating mechanism.
Antiarrhythmic Drugs: Class III Agents as Potassium Channel Blockers