Voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channels represent the most complex class of voltage-gated ion channels from both functional and structural standpoints. Their diverse functions include regulating neurotransmitter release , heart rate , insulin secretion , neuronal excitability , epithelial electrolyte transport , smooth muscle contraction , and cell volume. Four sequence-related potassium channel genes - shaker , shaw , shab , and shal - have been identified in Drosophila , and each has been shown to have human homolog (s) . This gene encodes a member of the potassium channel , voltage-gated , shal-related subfamily , members of which form voltage-activated A-type potassium ion channels and are prominent in the repolarization phase of the action potential. This member mediates a rapidly inactivating , A-type outward potassium current which is not under the control of the N terminus as i
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