Inflammation and ions
For some time now, researchers have understood that inflammation is reliant on the activation of the inflammasome within immune cells. This cellular structure is "switched on" by an influx of potassium ions.
The flow of ions is known to be pivotal, but exactly how they enter the cell was not understood — until now.
Prof. Malik and team identified a potassium receptor known as TWIK2. In particular, the scientists investigated the receptor's role within macrophages, which are multipurpose immune cells that clear up cellular debris during inflammation and attack pathogens.
New drugs from old molecules
Drugs that operate at potassium channels have already been designed, but none specifically target TWIK2. However, a potential starting point for research into new ways to influence this channel might be found in an old remedy: quinine.
Quinine — which is responsible for the bitter taste in tonic water — is a chemical found in cinchona bark. It has been used as an antimalarial and anti-inflammatory drug since the 18th century.
According to study co-author Dr. Jalees Rehman, "Some of the fever-suppressing effects of quinine may be due to its effects on the TWIK2 channel. We found that quinine reduced the levels of the inflammatory molecule interleukin 1-beta, which is known to cause fever."
Current anti-inflammatory medications tend to bring with them some unpleasant side effects, such as stomach ulcers, cardiovascular problems, and bowel perforations. So, finding something that acts in such a specific manner might help to design drugs with less harmful consequences.
Dr. Rehman hopes that their work will "pave the way for new personalized anti-inflammatory drugs, which minimize the side effects for patients."