Definition

The KCNQ1 gene (11p15.5) encodes the alpha subunit of the delayed rectifier potassium current (IKs) in the heart. Heterozygous loss-of-function variants cause long QT syndrome type 1 (about 90% of cases are due to KCNQ1), while gain-of-function variants cause short QT syndrome type 2. Biallelic loss-of-function variants cause the much more severe Jervell and Lange-Nielsen syndrome, associated with congenital severe sensorineural hearing loss.

Gene/region examined

KCNQ1 - Whole Gene

Method

Sequence analysis

Accepted sample types

EDTA blood, AF, CVS

Inheritance

Hereditary; long/short QT syndrome is autosomal dominant, Jervell and Lange-Nielsen syndrome is autosomal recessive (biallelic).

Related Tests

Inheritance Patterns

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

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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

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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.

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

A genetic test result falls into three main categories

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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.

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