KIR2.1 (N-18) Antibody: sc-18708

KIR2.1 Background Information
The KIR (for inwardly rectifying potassium channel) family of potassium channels possesses a greater tendency to allow potassium to flow into the cell rather than out of it. The Kir2 subunit family includes 2.1, 2.2, 2.3 and 2.4. Unlike G-protein coupled Kir3 subunits, Kir2.1 requires both phosphorylation by PKA and ATP hydrolysis for functional activity. Kir2.1 is expressed in the superior and inferior collicula and the pontine region of the brain, where it moderates synaptic transmission, like many other potassium channels. In the placenta, Kir2.1 is expressed throughout gestation in cytotrophoblast cells. In the kidney, Kir2.1 colocalizes with Kir5.1 in the proximal tubule. Kir2.1, 2.2 and 2.3 associate with the membrane-associated guanylate kinase synapse-associated protein 97 in the cerebellum and heart. Phosphorylation of Kir2.2 by protein kinase A inhibits the associates with SAP97. Arachidonic acid increases current amplitude in Kir2.3 activity but does not affect the activity of Kir2.1, 2.2 or 2.4. Kir2.4 is abundantly expressed in the neuronal retina and is sensitive to changes in extracellular pH.