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.