Kir21

Kir21, also known as potassium inwardly-rectifying channel subfamily K member 21 (KCNJ21), is a protein that functions as a potassium channel. It is a member of the inward-rectifier potassium channel family, which plays a crucial role in maintaining the resting membrane potential of cells and regulating various physiological processes. Kir21 is primarily expressed in the pancreas, where it is involved in the regulation of insulin secretion. Mutations in the KCNJ21 gene have been linked to permanent neonatal diabetes mellitus type 1 (PNDM1), a rare genetic disorder characterized by severe insulin deficiency from birth. The exact mechanism by which Kir21 mutations cause PNDM1 is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve impaired potassium channel function, leading to abnormal insulin secretion. Research on Kir21 and its role in diabetes is ongoing, with the aim of developing potential therapeutic strategies for PNDM1 and other related conditions.