Researchers working at Stanford University developed a viable knock out of the BK channel [large conductance calcium-activated potassium channel, also called K(Ca), Maxi K, Slo1] by targeting the Kcnma1 gene in mouse. Kcnma1 is the performing subunit of the BK channel.

These mice could be used to evaluate drugs that target BK channels. In addition, they could be used to model urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction, vascular hypertension, and Ryegrass staggers (a neurotoxin-produced disease of livestock). Furthermore, these mice may be useful in mechanistic or drug design studies for other proposed roles for the BK channel: modulation of neural excitability, neuroprotection, stroke, seizure, neuroendocrine regulation, uterine contraction, circadian rhythms, and cerebellar motor control.

File Number: 02-267