Heterologous expression of a glial Kir channel (KCNJ10) in a motoneuron cell line: a novel candidate for neuronal silencing?

Introduction: Reducing the excitability of specific neurons will provide insight into global neuronal functions as well as offer novel approaches to protect neurons from excess neuronal activity. Inwardly-rectifying potassium (Kir) channels contribute to the resting membrane potential (RMP) of neurons and glial cells and thereby regulate firing activity, transmembrane gradients of transmitter molecules and energy state of the cell. The Kir4.1 subunit (KCNJ10) is expressed predominantly in glial cells of the CNS. Genetic inactivation of Kir4.1 in mice has revealed a prominent role in establishing and maintaining…