It has been found that syntaxin binds and regulates the nucleotide binding folds (NBFs) of sulfonylurea receptors (SURs) in a ATP- and ADP-dependent manner. The present invention therefore provides methods for identifying compounds that effect the binding between a syntaxin protein and a NBF1 and/or NBF2 of a sulfonylurea receptor (SUR). Compounds identified using the method of the invention are useful for treating and/or preventing diseases and/or conditions that have, as their underlying basis, a dysregulation of K.sub.AT 191 channels.