Upregulation of voltage-gated potassium channels in peripheral blood mononuclear cells: a new approach to multiple sclerosis treatment

Multiple sclerosis (MS) involves immune dysregulation and abnormal ion channel function. This study investigated the expression and function of voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channel isoforms (Kv1.1, Kv1.2, Kv1.3, Kv1.6, Kv4.2, Kv4.3, Kv7.2) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and lymphocytes from MS patients (remittent-recurrent) compared to controls. We found an upregulation of in six out of seven Kv isoforms in PBMCs from MS patients, with sex-specific differences observed (female showing a more pronounced upregulation of specific isoforms). Electrophysiological analysis of CD3+ T lymphocytes showed no significant differences, while CD19+ B lymphocytes displayed a notable decrease in outward current density. These findings suggest potential variations in Kv channel function across immune cell types and highlight the need for further exploration of their roles in MS pathogenesis, particularly within B lymphocytes and considering sex-based considerations.