Kv1.3: a potential pharmacological target for diabetes

K+ channels, which are ubiquitous membrane proteins, play a central role in regulating the resting membrane potential and the shape and duration of the action potential in pancreatic beta-cells. There are at least three types of K+ channels (K-ATP, K-Ca, and Kv2.1 channels) that are involved in glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in pancreatic beta-cells, and one type (Kv1.3) that is associated with the regulation of insulin sensitivity in peripheral target tissues. This article reviews the function of Kv1.3 channels that contribute to mediating insulin action in insulin-sensitive tissues. Pharmacological strategies for targeting Kv1.3 are then discussed with a focus on a rationale for the potential therapeutic use of Kv1.3 blocker in diabetic treatment.