Integrated Approach Including Docking, MD Simulations, and Network Analysis Highlights the Action Mechanism of the Cardiac hERG Activator RPR260243

Abstract

hERG is a voltage-gated potassium channel involved in the heart contraction whose defections are associated with the cardiac arrhythmia Long QT Syndrome type 2. The activator RPR260243 (RPR) represents a possible candidate to pharmacologically treat LQTS2 because it enhances the opening of the channel. However, the molecular detail of its action mechanism remains quite elusive. Here, we address the problem using a combination of docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and network analysis. We show that the drug preferably binds at the interface between the voltage sensor and the pore, enhancing the canonical activation path and determining a whole-structure rearrangement of the channel that slightly impairs inactivation.