[Effects of telmisartan on voltage-gated Kv1.3 and Kv1.5 potassium channels expressed in Xenopus oocytes]

Abstract

Objective: To observe the effects of telmisartan on Kv1.3 and Kv1.5 potassium channels expressed in Xenopus oocytes.

Methods: Kv1.3 and Kv1.5 potassium channel currents expressed in Xenopus oocytes were recorded and observed in the absence and presence of telmisartan using standard two-microelectrode voltage clamp techniques.

Results: Telmisartan resulted in a concentration- and voltage-dependent inhibition effect on Kv1.3 channel current (IC(50) 2.05 micromol/L)and on Kv1.5 channel current (IC(50) 2.37 micromol/L).

Conclusions: Telmisartan blocks open-state Kv1.3 channel which could be one of the mechanisms related to its immunomodulatory and anti-atherosclerosis effect. Telmisartan also blocks open-state Kv1.5 channel which might partly account for its effect on reducing the incidence of atrial fibrillation.