KCNQ channels and novel insights into coronary perfusion.

K V 7 (KCNQ) voltage-gated potassium channels are encoded by the KCNQ gene family, many of which display highly restricted and distinct tissue distribution. Cloning experiments have identified 5 KCNQ genes (KCNQ1–5). 1 Mutations in 4 of the 5 genes of the KCNQ gene family have been associated with inherited diseases. KCNQ1 mutations cause cardiac arrhythmia in long QT syndrome with or without deafness. KCNQ2 and KCNQ3 mutations cause benign familial neonatal seizures and peripheral nerve hyperexcit-ability. Mutations in KCNQ4 underlie congenital deafness and modulate cutaneous touch sensitivity in man.