5-(4-Phenoxybutoxy)psoralen

5-(4-Phenoxybutoxy)psoralen (PAP-1) is derived from 5-methoxypsoralen, a natural compound. PAP-1 show higher selectivity for Kv1.3 (voltage-gated potassium channels) than other Kv1 family members. Kv1.3 is predominant on cell membranes of activated effector memory T-cells. Inhibition of Kv1.3 results in membrane depolarization. In rat models, PAP-1 is known to delay the onset of diabetes. It might be used in the treatment of psoriasis and effector memory T cells mediated autoimmune diseases. Oral, intraperitoneal and topical administration of PAP-1 prevents allergic contact dermatitis induced by oxazolone.

Selective inhibitor of K_v1.3, voltage-gated K⁺ channel.

Selective inhibitor of Kv1.3, voltage-gated K+ channel. PAP-1 (EC₅₀=2 nM) potently inhibits human T effector memory cell proliferation and delayed hypersensitivity. Effective orally or intraperitoneally. 5-(4-Phenoxybutoxy)psoralen has 23-fold selectivity for Kv1.3 over Kv1.5, and 33-125-fold selectivity over other Kv1 family channels.

This compound is featured on the Potassium Channels page of the Handbook of Receptor Classification and Signal Transduction. To browse other handbook pages, click here.