# Cardiovascular potassium channels: From molecular basis to disease therapeutics

> **NIH NIH R35** · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · 2024 · $1,088,500

## Abstract

Abstract
My lab studies the mechanistic basis, and functional consequences, of ion channels, particularly inward
rectifier (Kir) and ATP-sensitive (KATP) potassium channels, found throughout the cardiovascular system. Our
work integrates studies at multiple levels, from the fundamental molecular basis of channel activity to animal
models of pathologies associated with human disease. We are interested in how channels are constructed and
function, how they regulate individual smooth and cardiac muscles, and how altered channel function
contributes to the pathological consequences of aberrant function in the cardiovascular system. We have
developed the capability to purify and to analyze channel proteins structurally, biochemically and functionally. This
allows us to develop and address exciting new questions and hypotheses regarding the fundamental basis of Kir
and KATP channel activity. KATP channels link metabolism to electrical activity in cardiac and smooth muscle and we
have discovered how mutations in these KATP channel genes cause distinct human diseases. Cantu syndrome is
caused by gain-of-function in vascular KATP channels, and associated with multiple pathological consequences,
including reduced systemic vascular resistance, increased cardiac size and output, persistent fetal circulation,
pericardial effusion, lymphedema, decreased vascular compliance and decreased gut motility. Unique cellular and
animal models, as well as a unique research clinic, provide the tools for us to explain such features, and to
develop appropriate therapies. Our recent work leads us to new hypotheses which will be explored using multiple
cell biological and physiological approaches in cells, animals, and humans to reach a full understanding of the
nature and role of KATP dependent excitability in regulation of cardiovascular function. These studies form the
background to the development of novel pharmacological approaches and of appropriate specific therapies for
KATP-dependent pathologies.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10789352
- **Project number:** 1R35HL171542-01
- **Recipient organization:** WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
- **Principal Investigator:** Colin G Nichols
- **Activity code:** R35 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $1,088,500
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2024-01-01 → 2030-12-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10789352

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10789352, Cardiovascular potassium channels: From molecular basis to disease therapeutics (1R35HL171542-01). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10789352. Licensed CC0.

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