Potassium channels are present in most mammalian cells, where they participate in a wide range of physiologic responses. The protein encoded by this gene is an integral membrane protein and inward-rectifier type potassium channel, and probably has a role in controlling the excitability of motor neurons. [provided by RefSeq, Feb 2013],function:Inward rectifier potassium channels are characterized by a greater tendency to allow potassium to flow into the cell rather than out of it. Their voltage dependence is regulated by the concentration of extracellular potassium, as external potassium is raised, the voltage range of the channel opening shifts to more positive voltages. The inward rectification is mainly due to the blockage of outward current by internal magnesium. KCNJ14 gives rise to low-conductance channels with a low affinity to the channel blockers Barium and Cesium.,similarity:Belongs to the inward rectifier-type potassium channel family.,tissue specificity:Expressed preferentially in retina.,
