TREK-2 (KCNK10) Activators

TREK-2 (KCNK10) is part of the two-pore domain potassium (K2P) channel family, which plays a pivotal role in setting the resting membrane potential and overall cellular excitability. These channels contribute to the "leak" potassium currents in neurons and are characteristically influenced by various physical and chemical stimuli. As such, TREK-2 channels have emerged as an exciting area of study in cellular physiology and biophysics.

TREK-2 activators are molecules that can enhance the function or upregulate the expression of the KCNK10 channel. Several compounds and conditions have been identified or proposed to modulate TREK-2 activity. Arachidonic acid, a fatty acid molecule, is known to activate some K2P channels, suggesting its role in modulating TREK-2 channels. In addition, specific members of the TREK channel family, including TREK-2, are mechanosensitive. This means that mechanical stretch or membrane deformation can lead to the activation of these channels. Furthermore, the channels' thermosensitivity suggests that changes in temperature might modulate their activity. Some other members of the K2P channel family are known to be activated by pH changes, which may also influence TREK-2. Compounds like BL-1249, known to activate TREK-1, another member of the K2P family, suggest that similar molecules might influence TREK-2. Additionally, given the structural and functional similarities among the members of the TREK subfamily, molecules like ML67-33, which activate other TREK channels, might also have implications for TREK-2 activation.