Kcnj2

Homo sapiens

Potassium channels are present in most mammalian cells, where they participate in a wide range of physiologic responses. The protein encoded by this gene is an integral membrane protein and inward-rectifier type potassium channel. The encoded protein, which has a greater tendency to allow potassium to flow into a cell rather than out of a cell, probably participates in establishing action potential waveform and excitability of neuronal and muscle tissues. Mutations in this gene have been associated with Andersen syndrome, which is characterized by periodic paralysis, cardiac arrhythmias, and dysmorphic features. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008]

Kcnj2

Rattus norvegicus

Predicted to enable identical protein binding activity; phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate binding activity; and voltage-gated potassium channel activity. Involved in cellular response to mechanical stimulus; positive regulation of potassium ion transmembrane transport; and regulation of cardiac muscle cell contraction. Located in several cellular components, including T-tubule; dendritic spine; and intercalated disc. Is active in glutamatergic synapse and postsynaptic membrane. Used to study myocardial infarction. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in Andersen-Tawil syndrome; familial atrial fibrillation; familial periodic paralysis; and short QT syndrome. Orthologous to human KCNJ2 (potassium inwardly rectifying channel subfamily J member 2); PARTICIPATES IN neuron-to-neuron signaling pathway via the chemical synapse; acebutolol pharmacodynamics pathway; adrenergic beta receptor agonist and beta-blocker pharmacodynamics pathway; INTERACTS WITH 3,3',4,4',5-pentachlorobiphenyl; acetamide; ammonium chloride.