Kir3.1 channel is functionally involved in TLR4-mediated signaling

► TLR4 stimulation induces the recruitment of TLR4 and Kir3.1 into the lipid raft in THP-1 cells. ► Tertiapin-Q (TQ), a specific inhibitor of Kir3.1, markedly abolished the recruitment of TLR4 into the lipid raft and inhibited the LPS-induced NF-κB activation, resulting in decreased production of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. ► These effects could be verified in Kir3.1 knockdown THP-1. ► These results suggest that Kir3.1 channel, one of the inwardly rectifying potassium channels, is functionally linked to TLR4-mediated signaling.