Modulation of Kv2.1 channels inactivation by curcumin

BackgroundThe aim of the present study was to assess the effects of curcumin on the voltage-dependent Kv2.1 potassium channel.MethodsThe whole-cell patch-clamp technique was used to explore the regulation of Kv2.1 channels expressed in HEK293 cells by curcumin.ResultsCurcumin reduced the Kv2.1 currents; the inhibition occurred with a slow time course and was partially reversible. Curcumin did not alter the kinetics and voltage dependence of activation; however, the kinetics of open- and closed-state inactivation was accelerated by curcumin along with a hyperpolarizing shift in the voltage dependence of inactivation. Curcumin inhibition of Kv2.1 current was not use-dependent.ConclusionsOverall, our data suggest that curcumin inhibits Kv2.1 channels by modulating the inactivation gating, which would be expected to impact cellular physiology.