Potassium channel subfamily K member 1 (KCNK1 (also called TWIK-1))

Potassium channel subfamily K member 1 (KCNK1, also known as TWIK-1) is a membrane protein that belongs to the two-pore domain potassium channel (K2P) family. This protein facilitates passive transmembrane potassium transport and contributes to the regulation of the resting membrane potential, particularly in brain astrocytes and neurons. KCNK1 may not form a functional channel as a homodimer but can form heterodimers with other K2P members, contributing to neuronal excitability and kidney function. Its activity is regulated through mechanisms such as sumoylation and intracellular trafficking. There is no well-established therapeutic agent that targets KCNK1 directly, and it is not currently a common biomarker in clinical use.

Other names

KCNK1TWIK-1TWIK1HOHOHOHO1K2P1K2P1.1DPKKCNO1inward rectifying potassium channel protein TWIK-1potassium two pore domain channel subfamily K member 1potassium channel K2P1potassium channel KCNO1

No drugs known to act directly on KCNK1/TWIK-1 in clinical use; possible modulation by anesthetics and sumoylation, but insufficient evidence of direct targeting.