title: Kir2.6
text: # Kir2.6
  
  The $K_{ir}2.6$ also known as inward rectifier potassium channel 18 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the KCNJ18 gene. $K_{ir}2.6$ is an inward-rectifier potassium ion channel.
  
  ## Function
  
  Inwardly rectifying potassium channels, such as $K_{ir}2.6,$ maintain resting membrane potential in excitable cells and aid in repolarization of cells following depolarization. $K_{ir}2.6$ is primarily expressed in skeletal muscle and is transcriptionally regulated by thyroid hormone.
  
  ## Clinical significance
  
  Mutations in this gene have been linked to thyrotoxic periodic paralysis.
  
  