Function of acid-sensing ion channels and its influence in the development of epilepsy

Abstract

Acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) are H⁺-gated, Na⁺-permeable channels formed by six different subunits which are coded by four genes. These channels open when the extracellular pH decreases. Studies show that ASICs play an important role in the pathological process of inflammation, ischemia, pain and etc. Extracellular pH decreases obviously in the process of epilepsy, resulting in the open of ASICs. However, recent studies have indicated that ASICs may also play a significant role in the termination of epilepsy. So far, the homo- or heteromeric association of six subunits and their specific inhibitors have been found, and they may be novel targets for the development of new drugs.

doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1672-6731.2014.11.005