K⁺ Channels of Müller Glial Cells in Retinal Disorders

Background & Objective: Müller cell is the major type of glial cell in the vertebrate retina. Müller cells express various types of K+ channels, such as inwardly rectifying K+ (Kir) channels, big conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (BKCa) channels, delayed rectifier K+ channels (KDR), and transient A-type K+ channels. These K+ channels play important roles in maintaining physiological functions of Müller cells. Under some retinal pathological conditions, the changed expression and functions of K+ channels may contribute to retinal pathogenesis. Conclusion: In this article, we reviewed the physiological properties of K+ channels in retinal Müller cells and the functional changes of these channels in retinal disorders.