Two-pore-domain potassium channels (K_2P-channels) represent the most recently discovered family of K⁺ channels. Their name is derived from the fact that each subunit of the channels possesses two so-called pore domains. Functional K_2P-channels assemble as dimers, in which four pore domains form a K⁺-selective ion channel. The family of K_2P-channels comprises 15 genes in humans, many of which are expressed in the brain and almost every organ in the human body. Physiologically relevant processes in which K_2P-channels are involved include regulation of neuronal excitability, neuroprotection, inhalational anaesthesia and sleep, control of breathing, nociception, transepithelial transport and cell proliferation. K_2P-channels may play a role in the genesis of many diseases including depression, schizophrenia, epilepsy, various endocrine, cardiac arrhythmias, hypertension and other diseases. Therefore these channels represent potential targets for novel drugs.

The research consortium of the FOR 1086 comprises eight groups from Marburg, Münster, Regensburg, Kiel and Göttingen. They use different biochemical, cell biological, and molecular biological techniques to study the structure and the functional role of K_2P-channels at the molecular and cellular level as well as in animal models of disease.

The FOR 1086 was established in 2008 and will be funded by the DFG until 2014.