The KCNJ11 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 KCNJ11 gene and four are produced from another gene called ABCC8.
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
ATP-sensitive inward rectifier potassium channel 11; beta-cell inward rectifier; beta-cell inward rectifier subunit; BIR; inward rectifier K(+) channel Kir6.2; inwardly rectifying potassium channel KIR6.2; Kir6.2; potassium channel, inwardly rectifying subfamily J, member 11; potassium channel, inwardly rectifying, BIR subunit
Related Genetics Topics
- Congenital hyperinsulinism — MedlinePlus Genetics
- Permanent neonatal diabetes mellitus — MedlinePlus Genetics
- Gestational diabetes — MedlinePlus Genetics
- Maturity-onset diabetes of the young — MedlinePlus Genetics
Identifiers
- NCBI Gene: 3767
- OMIM: 600937
Source: MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
