TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION

A complementary DNA encoding a novel K+ channel called TASK-2 (TWIK-related Acid-Sensitive K+ - 2), was isolated from the human kidney.
TASK-2 is highly sensitive to external pH in the physiological range. TASK-2 is essentially absent in the brain but is mainly expressed in the kidney (cortical distal tubules and collecting ducts). This suggests that TASK-2 could play an important role in renal K+ transport.
The technology also involves a diagnostic test to detect hypertension or diseases of the kidney, pancreas and/ or liver that arise from mutations in the TASK-2 genes.