Analgesic Effects of the GIRK Activator, VU0466551, Alone and in Combination with Morphine in Acute and Persistent Pain Models.

ABSTRACT: G protein-gated inwardly rectifying potassium (GIRK) channels are potassium-selective ion channels. As their name suggests, GIRK channels are effectors of G_i/o G protein-couple receptors whereby activation of these GPCRs leads to increased GIRK channel activity resulting in decreased cellular excitability. In this way, GIRK channels play diverse roles in physiology as effectors of G_i/o-coupled GPCRs: peacemaking in the heart rate, modulation of hormone secretion in endocrine tissues, as well as numerous CNS functions including learning, memory, and addiction/reward. Notably, GIRK channels are widely expressed along the spinothalamic tract and are positioned to play roles in both ascending and descending pain pathways. More notably, GIRK channel knockout and knock-down

SUBMITTER: Abney KK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6765219 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature