KCNQ proteins have six transmembrane domains and are structurally related to Kv potassium channels. KCNQ5 is a member of the KCNQ potassium channel family. It is widely expressed in the brain and generates M-type current []. It may also contribute to the afterhyperpolarization currents in hippocampus in a cell type-specific manner []. Interestingly, KCNQ channels can form homomers as well as heteromers with each other (i.e., KCNQ2/KCNQ3, KCNQ3/KCNQ5, KCNQ3/KCNQ4), thus creating multiple possible combinations of KCNQ-mediated currents []. Mutations in the KCNQ5 gene cause intellectual disability or epileptic encephalopathy [].
