Role of KATP channels in protection against neuronal excitatory insults

ATP-sensitive K+ (K-ATP) channels that are gated by intracellular ATP/ADP concentrations are a unique subtype of potassium channels and play an essential role in coupling intracellular metabolic events to electrical activity. Opening of K-ATP channels during energy deficits in the CNS induces efflux of potassium ions and in turn hyperpolarizes neurons. Thus, activation of K-ATP channels is thought to be able to counteract excitatory insults and protect against neuronal death. In this review, we bring together recent studies about what kinds of molecules are needed to build and regulate arrays of K-ATP channel functions in the CNS neurons. We propose a model to explain how K-ATP channel activation regulates glutamate release from the pre-synaptic terminals and how this regulation protects against ischemic neuronal injury and epilepsy.