Editing Kir6.2

'''Kir6.2''' is a protein that in humans is encoded by the KCNJ11 gene. It is a subunit of the [[Potassium channel|potassium channel]], specifically the [[Inward-rectifier potassium ion channel|inward-rectifier type]]. This protein forms a part of the [[ATP-sensitive potassium channel]], which is found in the [[Plasma membrane|plasma membrane]] of many [[Cell (biology)|cell types]] and controls the flow of [[Potassium|potassium ions]] in and out of the cells.

== Structure ==
The Kir6.2 protein is composed of 390 [[Amino acid|amino acids]] and has a molecular weight of approximately 43.4 kDa. It has two [[Transmembrane domain|transmembrane domains]] with the N- and C-termini located on the intracellular side of the membrane. The protein also contains a pore-forming region between the two transmembrane domains.

== Function ==
The primary function of Kir6.2 is to form a part of the ATP-sensitive potassium channel. This channel is a complex of four Kir6.2 subunits and four [[Sulfonylurea receptor|sulfonylurea receptor]] (SUR) subunits. The channel is sensitive to the levels of [[Adenosine triphosphate|ATP]] and [[Adenosine diphosphate|ADP]] in the cell. When ATP levels are high, the channel closes, preventing potassium ions from leaving the cell. When ATP levels drop and ADP levels rise, the channel opens, allowing potassium ions to flow out of the cell. This mechanism helps to regulate the electrical activity of the cell.

== Clinical significance ==
Mutations in the KCNJ11 gene that encodes Kir6.2 can lead to several diseases. These include [[Permanent neonatal diabetes mellitus|permanent neonatal diabetes mellitus]], [[Transient neonatal diabetes mellitus|transient neonatal diabetes mellitus]], and [[Hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia|hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia]]. These diseases are all related to the regulation of [[Insulin|insulin]] secretion by [[Pancreatic beta cell|pancreatic beta cells]], which is controlled by the ATP-sensitive potassium channel.

== See also ==
* [[Potassium channel]]
* [[Inward-rectifier potassium ion channel]]
* [[ATP-sensitive potassium channel]]
* [[Sulfonylurea receptor]]
* [[Adenosine triphosphate]]
* [[Adenosine diphosphate]]
* [[Permanent neonatal diabetes mellitus]]
* [[Transient neonatal diabetes mellitus]]
* [[Hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia]]

[[Category:Ion channels]]
[[Category:Proteins]]
[[Category:Genes]]
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