Twik 2 Protein is an important component in the neurobiology of neurodegenerative diseases. This page provides detailed information about its structure, function, and role in disease processes.
This gene/protein plays important roles in neuronal function and is relevant to neurodegenerative disease research.
| Two-Pore Domain Potassium Channel 6 (TWIK-2) | |
|---|---|
| Protein Name | TWIK-2 (K2P6.1) |
| Gene | KCNK6 |
| UniProt ID | Q9Y5S1 |
| Molecular Weight | ~45 kDa |
| Subcellular Localization | Plasma membrane |
| Protein Family | Two-pore domain potassium channel (K2P) family |
TWIK-2 is a member of the two-pore domain potassium channel family with the characteristic four transmembrane segments and two pore domains. It forms functional homodimers. The channel contains the typical K⁺ selectivity filter and is modulated by intracellular signals including pH.
TWIK-2 contributes to background potassium conductance in various tissues including brain, heart, and endocrine cells. It plays a role in maintaining cellular resting potential and may be involved in hormone secretion from endocrine cells. In immune cells, TWIK-2 contributes to modulation of cell activation and cytokine production.
| Disease | Role | Mechanism |
|---|---|---|
| Cardiovascular Disease | Risk factor | Cardiac electrophysiology |
| Diabetes | Risk factor | Beta-cell function |
| Neuroinflammation | Risk factor | Glial cell function |
The study of Twik 2 Protein has evolved significantly over the past decades. Research in this area has revealed important insights into the underlying mechanisms of neurodegeneration and continues to drive therapeutic development.
Historical context and key discoveries in this field have shaped our current understanding and will continue to guide future research directions.