EtOH can also potentiate the function of GIRK-type potassium channels (Aryal et al. 2009; Kobayashi et al. 1999; Lewohl et al. 1999). This effect occurs at concentrations associated with intoxication. The net effect of GIRK activation is to inhibit neuronal activity. This action of EtOH was originally observed in cerebellar granule neurons (Lewohl et al. 1999), and subsequent studies have indicated similar actions in midbrain dopaminergic neurons (Federici et al. 2009). EtOH effects on this G protein target may contribute to intoxication. Studies by Blednov et al. (2001) indicate that loss of the GIRK2 channel subunit alters acute EtOH actions. There is certainly a need for additional studies of how GIRK activation might contribute to intoxication.
