Functional protection against cardiac diseases depends on ATP-sensitive potassium channels

ATP-sensitive potassium channels (K_ATP) channels are widely distributed in various tissues, including pancreatic beta cells, muscle tissue and brain tissue. K_ATP channels play an important role in cardioprotection in physiological/pathological situations. K_ATP channels are inhibited by an increase in the intracellular ATP concentration and are stimulated by an increase in the intracellular MgADP concentration. Activation of K_ATP channels decreases ischaemia/reperfusion injury, protects cardiomyocytes from heart failure, and reduces the occurrence of arrhythmias. K_ATP channels are involved in various signalling pathways, and their participation in protective processes is regulated by endogenous signalling molecules, such as nitric oxide and hydrogen sulphide. K_ATP channels may act as a new drug target to fight against cardiovascular disease in the development of related drugs in the future. This review highlights the potential mechanisms correlated with the protective role of K_ATP channels and their therapeutic value in cardiovascular diseases.