Neuronal G protein-gated K 1 channels

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

23 Scopus citations

Abstract

G protein-gated inwardly rectifying K þ (GIRK/Kir3) channels exert a critical inhibitory influence on neurons. Neuronal GIRK channels mediate the G protein-dependent, direct/postsynaptic inhibitory effect of many neurotransmitters including c-aminobutyric acid (GABA), serotonin, dopamine, adenosine, somatostatin, and enkephalin. In addition to their complex regulation by G proteins, neuronal GIRK channel activity is sensitive to phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2), phosphorylation, regulator of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins, intracellular Na þ and Ca2 þ , and cholesterol. The application of genetic and viral manipulations in rodent models, together with recent progress in the development of GIRK channel modulators, has increased our understanding of the physiological and behavioral impact of neuronal GIRK channels. Work in rodent models has also revealed that neuronal GIRK channel activity is modified, transiently or persistently, by various stimuli including exposure drugs of abuse, changes in neuronal activity patterns, and aversive experience. A growing body of preclinical and clinical evidence suggests that dysregulation of GIRK channel activity contributes to neurological diseases and disorders. The primary goals of this review are to highlight fundamental principles of neuronal GIRK channel biology, mechanisms of GIRK channel regulation and plasticity, the nascent landscape of GIRK channel pharmacology, and the potential relevance of GIRK channels to the pathophysiology and treatment of neurological diseases and disorders.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)C439-C460
JournalAmerican Journal of Physiology - Cell Physiology
Volume323
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 2022

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
Copyright © 2022 the American Physiological Society.

Keywords

  • G protein
  • GIRK
  • GPCR
  • inhibition
  • plasticity
  • Neurons/metabolism
  • Signal Transduction
  • GTP-Binding Proteins/metabolism
  • G Protein-Coupled Inwardly-Rectifying Potassium Channels/genetics

PubMed: MeSH publication types

  • Journal Article
  • Review
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

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