Assay systems and methods for detecting molecules that interact with SK2 channels

摘要

The invention provides methods including steps of: providing cells capable of expressing SK2; contacting the cells with a test molecule; obtaining information indicative of cellular SK2 expression to obtain an SK2 Expression Value; comparing the SK2 Expression Value with a control SK2 Expression Value; and identifying a test molecule that causes the cells to display an SK2 Expression Value that is different from the control SK2 Expression Value. Also provided are methods including steps of: providing a sample comprising an SK2 channel; contacting the sample with a test molecule; obtaining information indicative of SK2 channel activity in the sample to obtain an SK2 Channel Activity Value; comparing the SK2 Channel Activity Value with a control Channel Activity Value; and identifying a test molecule that causes the SK2 Channel Activity Value to be different from the control Channel Activity Value. Methods of identifying a molecule useful for treating neuropathic pain are also described.