The present invention is directed to genes and gene products related to
Min-K which form ion channels and to a process for diagnosis of ion
channel disorders, including long QT syndrome (LQT). For example, KCNE2
forms I.sub.Kr potassium channels and is associated with LQT. LQT is
diagnosed in accordance with the present invention by analyzing the DNA
sequence of KCNE2 of an individual to be tested and comparing the
respective DNA sequence to the known DNA sequence of a normal KCNE2 gene.
Alternatively, these MinK-related genes of an individual to be tested can
be screened for mutations which cause ion channel disorders, including
LQT. Prediction of ion channel disorders, including LQT, will enable
practitioners to prevent the disorders using existing medical therapy.
This invention is further directed to the discovery that the HERG and
KCNE2 (also known as MiRP1) proteins coassemble to form a cardiac I.sub.Kr
potassium channel.
