[HERG K+ channel, the target of anti-arrhythmias drugs].

Rapidly activating component of delayed rectifier potassium current (I(Kr)) plays a key role in the repolarization phase of cardiac action potential. Human ether-a-go-go-related gene (HERG) encodes the alpha subunit of this potassium channel. Mutations of HERG gene induce genetic long QT syndrome (LQTS). Furthermore, I(Kr)/HERG is the target of some drugs which may cause cardiac QT interval prolongation. Some other drugs with different chemical structures also may block the channel and prolong QT interval, which even developed into acquired arrhythmias. This review summarized the recent progress of structure, gating mechanisms and functions of I(Kr)/HERG channel, I(Kr)/HERG related arrhythmias, interaction between K+ channel and drugs, and strategies of grading-up the I(Kr)/HERG target.