The ABCC8 gene provides instructions for making one part (subunit) of the ATP-sensitive potassium (KATP) channels that are found in specialized pancreas cells called beta cells. These KATP channels consist of eight subunits: four of these subunits are produced from the ABCC8 gene and four are produced from another gene called KCNJ11.
These KATP channels span the cell membranes of the beta cells. Beta cells secrete the hormone insulin, which helps control the levels of glucose in the blood, also called blood sugar. Glucose is a simple sugar and the primary energy source for most cells in the body. When blood glucose levels are high, the KATP channels close, which triggers the beta cells to release insulin into the bloodstream. In this way, KATP channels help regulate insulin secretion and control blood glucose levels.
Other Names
ABC36; ATP-binding cassette, sub-family C (CFTR/MRP), member 8; ATP-binding cassette, sub-family C, member 8; MRP8; sulfonylurea receptor; sulfonylurea receptor, beta cell high affinity; SUR1; TNDM2
Related Genetics Topics
- Congenital hyperinsulinism — MedlinePlus Genetics
- Permanent neonatal diabetes mellitus — MedlinePlus Genetics
- Maturity-onset diabetes of the young — MedlinePlus Genetics
Identifiers
- NCBI Gene: 6833
- OMIM: 600509
Source: MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
