Potassium voltage-gated channel modifier subfamily G member 4 (KCNG4)

Potassium voltage-gated channel modifier subfamily G member 4 (KCNG4) is a regulatory subunit of the voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channels, specifically associated with the modulation of heterotetrameric channel complexes such as those formed with KCNB1 (Kv2.1). KCNG4 does not form functional channels on its own but alters channel properties—such as activation kinetics and voltage dependence—when coexpressed with pore-forming Kv alpha subunits. It is primarily expressed in the brain and is associated with physiological processes like neuronal excitability, neurotransmitter release, and other potassium channel-related activities. Mutations or dysregulation in KCNG4 have been implicated in congenital stationary night blindness and distal arthrogryposis. No direct KDNG4-selective drugs are known, and its therapeutic relevance is primarily as a modulator of complex channel assemblies rather than as an independent drug target.

Other names

Voltage-gated potassium channel regulatory subunit KCNG4Kv6.4Kv6.3 (sometimes used, but note: Kv6.3 is more specifically KCNG3)Potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily G member 4Voltage-gated potassium channel subunit Kv6.3 (but see above comment)Voltage-gated potassium channel subunit Kv6.4KCNG3 (sometimes confused, but should refer to a different gene)Potassium channel, voltage-gated, modifier subfamily G, member 4