Potassium channels are a class of voltage-gated ion channels that open in response to changes in the electrical potential across the cell membrane and allow the efflux of positively charged potassium ions (K⁺) out of the cell. This efflux of ions causes a repolarization of the membrane, which helps to terminate the action potential and reset the cell for the next action potential.

K⁺ channels play a critical role in many physiological processes, including cardiovascular function, neural excitability, and insulin secretion. They are also involved in maintaining the resting membrane potential and regulating the excitability of cells.

Dysregulation of potassium channels has been linked to a wide range of diseases, including cardiovascular disorders, neurological disorders, and metabolic disorders. For example, mutations in potassium channels have been linked to hypertension, arrhythmias, and atrial fibrillation. K⁺ channels also regulate insulin secretion, and defects in K+ channels have been linked to diabetes.

K⁺ channels are also important drug targets for various diseases. For example, blockers of certain K+ channels have been used to treat hypertension and certain arrhythmias. In addition, activators of K⁺ channels have been proposed as potential therapies for diabetes and other metabolic disorders.