[Molecular basis of oral hypoglycemic sulfonylurea action].

Sulfonylureas are commonly used antidiabetic oral agents. They act through a receptor in the beta cell membrane, which is called the sulfonylurea receptor 1 (SUR1). SUR1 together with Kir 6.2 protein assembles into a potassium channel, playing a key role in the regulation of insulin secretion. The work discusses up to date views on the structure and function of sulfonylurea receptors and potassium channels as well as clinical implications of their disturbances.