Kv7 and Kv11 channels in myometrial regulation Symposium Report

New Findings What is the topic of this review? The topic of this review is how ion channels contribute to the physiology of the uterus, with particular focus on novel potassium channels. What advances does it highlight? Two families of potassium channels, encoded by KCNQ and KCNH genes, have been identified as important players in the control of myometrial contraction and may represent interesting novel therapeutic targets. Ion channels play a key role in defining myometrial contractility. Modulation of ion channel populations is proposed to underpin gestational changes in uterine contractility associated with the transition from uterine quiescence to active labour. Of the myriad ion channels present in the uterus, this article will focus upon potassium channels encoded by the KCNQ genes and ether-a-go-go-related (ERG) genes. Voltage-gated potassium channels encoded by KCNQ and ERG (termed Kv7 and Kv11, respectively) are accepted as major determinants of neuronal excitability and the duration of the cardiac action potential. However, there is now growing appreciation that these ion channels have a major functional impact in vascular and non-vascular smooth muscle. Moreover, Kv7 channels may be potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of preterm labour.