KCNK4
Description
The KCNK4 (potassium two pore domain channel subfamily K member 4) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 11.
KCNK4 is a gene that encodes the TRAAK (TWIK-related Arachidonic Acid-Stimulated K+) subfamily of mechanosensitive potassium channels. Potassium channels are essential for many cellular processes, including action potential depolarization, muscle contraction, hormone secretion, osmotic regulation, and ion flow. The K2P4.1 protein, encoded by KCNK4, is a lipid-gated ion channel belonging to the K2P (two pore-forming P domains) superfamily of potassium channel proteins. K2P4.1 forms homodimers and functions as an outwardly rectifying channel. It is primarily expressed in neural tissues and is stimulated by membrane stretch and polyunsaturated fatty acids. TRAAK channels are found in mammalian neurons and belong to a protein family of weakly inward rectifying potassium channels. This subfamily is mechanically gated. The C-terminal of TRAAK contains a charged cluster that is crucial for maintaining the mechanosensitive properties of the channel.
KCNK4 encodes a voltage-insensitive potassium channel (PubMed:22282805). The channel is activated by mechanical forces that deform the cell membrane (PubMed:22282805, PubMed:25471887, PubMed:25500157, PubMed:30290154). Increasing intracellular pH to basic levels also triggers channel opening (By similarity). At 24 degrees Celsius, the channel is inactive; however, increasing the temperature to 37 degrees Celsius increases the frequency of channel opening, with further increases in channel activity at 42 degrees Celsius (By similarity). KCNK4 plays a role in the perception of pain caused by both heat and pressure (By similarity). {ECO:0000250|UniProtKB:G3V8V5, ECO:0000250|UniProtKB:O88454, ECO:0000269|PubMed:22282805, ECO:0000269|PubMed:25471887, ECO:0000269|PubMed:25500157, ECO:0000269|PubMed:30290154}
KCNK4 is also known as FHEIG, K2p4.1, TRAAK, TRAAK1.
