KCNJ5 : potassium inwardly rectifying channel subfamily J member 5
Description
The KCNJ5 (potassium inwardly rectifying channel subfamily J member 5) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 11.
The KCNJ5 gene provides instructions for making a potassium channel protein, which facilitates the movement of potassium ions (K+) into and out of cells. This protein is found in various tissues, including the adrenal glands, small hormone-producing glands located above the kidneys. In the adrenal glands, the flow of potassium ions generates an electrical charge across the cell membrane, influencing the initiation of biochemical processes that regulate aldosterone production. Aldosterone plays a crucial role in blood pressure regulation by controlling the appropriate levels of salt and fluids in the body.
This potassium channel is regulated by G proteins. It exhibits inward rectification, meaning it preferentially allows potassium to flow into the cell. The channel's voltage sensitivity is influenced by the concentration of potassium outside the cell; increasing external potassium shifts the voltage range for channel opening towards more positive values. The inward rectification is primarily caused by internal magnesium blocking outward current. This channel can be blocked by external barium and may form a complex with GIRK1 and GIRK2 to create a G-protein-activated multimeric pore.
KCNJ5 is also known as CIR, GIRK4, KATP1, KIR3.4, LQT13.
Associated Diseases
- Hyperaldosteronism, familial, type III
- Andersen-Tawil syndrome
- Familial atrial fibrillation
- Familial hyperaldosteronism type III
- Long QT syndrome 13
- Romano-Ward syndrome
- Familial hyperaldosteronism
- Aldosterone-producing adenoma
