Inwardly rectifying potassium channel 5.1: Structure, function, and possible roles in diseases

Inwardly rectifying potassium (Kir) channels make it easier for K+ to enter into a cell and subsequently regulate cellular biological functions. Kir5.1 (encoded by KCNJ16) alone can form a homotetramer and can form heterotetramers with Kir4.1 (encoded by KCNJ10) or Kir4.2 (encoded by KCNJ15). In most cases, homomeric Kir5.1 is non-functional, while heteromeric Kir5.1 on the cell membrane contributes to the inward flow of K+ ions, which can be regulated by intracellular pH and a variety of signaling mechanisms. In the form of a heterotetramer, Kir5.1 regulates Kir4.1/4.2 activity and is involved in the maintenance of nephron function. Actually, homomeric Kir5.1 may also play a very important role in diseases, including in the ventilatory response to hypoxia and hypercapnia, hearing impairment, cardiovascular disease and cancer. With an increase in the number of studies into the roles of Kir channels, researchers are paying more attention to the pathophysiological functions of Kir5.1. This minireview provides an overview regarding these Kir5.1 roles. Copyright (C) 2020, Chongqing Medical University. Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V.

Automated summary

Inwardly rectifying potassium (Kir) channels, specifically Kir5.1, play important roles in regulating K+ ion flow into cells and are involved in various physiological and pathophysiological functions. Kir5.1 can form homotetramers and heterotetramers, contributing to the maintenance of nephron function and potentially impacting diseases such as hearing impairment, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Researchers are increasingly focusing on the roles of Kir5.1 in disease pathophysiology.