KCNJ15

KCNJ15 or Potassium Inwardly-Rectifying Channel, Subfamily J, Member 15 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the KCNJ15 gene. It is a member of the potassium channel, inwardly rectifying (Kir) family. This protein is a potassium ion channel that allows potassium ions to flow out of the cell, contributing to the resting potential of the cell.

Function

KCNJ15 is a member of the Kir family of potassium channels, which are characterized by their inward rectification. Channels in this family are sensitive to many factors including pH, G-proteins, intracellular sodium, and the membrane voltage. KCNJ15 is primarily expressed in the kidney and is thought to play a significant role in potassium homeostasis.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the KCNJ15 gene have been associated with Bartter syndrome, a rare inherited defect in the kidney. In Bartter syndrome, the kidneys remove too much potassium from the body, which can lead to a variety of symptoms including salt wasting, hypokalemic alkalosis, and hypercalciuria.

See also

• Inward-rectifier potassium ion channels
• Bartter syndrome

External links

• KCNJ15 at the National Center for Biotechnology Information

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