B. Pirotte*, J. Fontaine and P. Lebrun Pages 573 - 582 ( 10 )
Among the large number of potassium channels so far described, ATP-sensitive K+ channels (KATP channels) have recently attracted considerable interest since currerit studies revealed their essential r le in diverse fundamental physiological processes. Such ATP-regl.Jiated K+ channels have been identified in numerous cell types including endocrine cells, smooth muscle cells, cardiac cells and central neurons. During the last few years, the amount of chemical agents with K+ channel opening properties has greatly expanded. These "potassium channel openers" (PCOs) are expected to exert their biological activity through activation of KATP channels. PCOs display several potential clinical applications and are currently used in the treatment of different cardiovascular disorders. However, development of PCOs as new drugs of clinical importance will depend upon their tissue selectivity and their affinity for a single KATP channel subtype. This review presents recent progresses in the chemistry of PCOs and reports chemical aspects governing their tissue selectivity.