Selective Kv1.3 channel blocker as therapeutic for obesity and insulin resistance
Abstract
Obesity is a global epidemic in need of novel and safe therapeutics. We show that ShK-186, a selective blocker of the Kv1.3 potassium channel, has powerful antiobesity effects in a mouse model of diet-induced obesity. ShK-186 increases energy expenditure by activating brown adipose tissue, causes profound changes in liver metabolism and reduces obesity-induced inflammation of white adipose tissue. Our studies highlight the potential use of selective Kv1.3 blockers in the treatment of obesity and insulin resistance.
- Publication:
-
Proceedings of the National Academy of Science
- Pub Date:
- June 2013
- DOI:
- 10.1073/pnas.1221206110
- Bibcode:
- 2013PNAS..110E2239U