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Updated: May 14, 2026

A Fluorescence-Based Assay of Membrane Potential for High-Throughput Functional Study of Two Endogenous Ion Channels in Two Epithelial Cell Lines
06:59

A Fluorescence-Based Assay of Membrane Potential for High-Throughput Functional Study of Two Endogenous Ion Channels in Two Epithelial Cell Lines

Published on: June 22, 2022

Flufenamic acid as an ion channel modulator

Romain Guinamard1, Christophe Simard, Christopher Del Negro

  • 1Normandie Univ, France. romain.guinamard@unicaen.fr

Pharmacology & Therapeutics
|January 30, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Flufenamic acid, known for anti-inflammatory effects, also modulates various ion channels. Careful interpretation is needed due to its broad targets, but it remains a valuable research tool.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Physiology

Background:

  • Flufenamic acid (FFA) was identified in the 1960s for anti-inflammatory properties via prostaglandin synthesis inhibition.
  • Later, FFA was recognized as an ion channel modulator, shifting its application from medicine to research.
  • Its rapid action and reversibility make FFA a convenient research tool.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide an overview of ion channels modulated by flufenamic acid.
  • To aid researchers in interpreting experimental results involving FFA.
  • To explore the potential for reevaluating FFA's therapeutic applications.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on flufenamic acid's effects on ion channels.
  • Analysis of effective concentrations for FFA modulation across different channel types.
  • Compilation of data on FFA's impact at molecular, cellular, and system levels.

Main Results:

  • Flufenamic acid modulates non-selective cation, chloride, potassium, calcium, and sodium channels.
  • Effective concentrations vary widely, from 10⁻⁶ M (TRPM4 inhibition) to 10⁻³ M (two-pore potassium channel activation).
  • FFA exhibits a broad spectrum of ion channel targets.

Conclusions:

  • Flufenamic acid is a versatile tool for ion channel research when used cautiously.
  • Understanding FFA's diverse targets is crucial for accurate experimental interpretation.
  • Further research into FFA's targets may reveal new therapeutic possibilities.

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