Definition

Heterozygous pathogenic variants in the KCNJ11 gene have an activating effect on the Kir6.2 subunit of the ATP-sensitive potassium channel in the pancreatic beta cell; the channel remaining permanently open blocks insulin secretion. This gene is the most common cause of permanent neonatal diabetes mellitus; affected individuals can be effectively treated with oral sulfonylureas instead of insulin.

Gene/region analyzed

KCNJ11 - Whole Gene

Method

Sequence analysis

Accepted sample types

EDTA blood, AF, CVS

Inheritance

Hereditary, autosomal dominant (mostly de novo).

Related Tests

Inheritance Patterns

Describes how a genetic condition is passed on within a family. There are five main patterns

Go to term →

Carrier (Heterozygous / Homozygous)

Why it matters: In autosomal recessive inheritance, when each parent is a carrier (while both appear healthy), the chance of their child being born with the disease is 25% in each

Go to term →

VUS (Variant of Uncertain Significance)

This is the situation where the test has detected a change in the DNA, but the role of this change in the development of disease is unconfirmed.

Go to term →

How to Read a Genetic Test Result (Positive / Negative / VUS)

A genetic test result falls into three main categories

Go to term →

Types of Genetic Tests

A genetic test is a type of medical test that detects changes in genes, chromosomes or proteins. Today there are more than 77,000 genetic tests available.

Go to term →