Genetic Test
WNK4 (WNK Lysine Deficient Protein Kinase 4) is a gene that regulates the function of enzymes responsible for the transport and homeostasis of sodium and potassium ions (Na-K), which are essential for neural signal transmission. This test targets a single gene variant associated with hypokalemic periodic paralysis.
Disease Description
Hypokalemic periodic paralysis is a genetic disorder characterized by sudden muscle weakness and paralysis due to low potassium levels in the blood. The transport and maintenance of sodium and potassium ions (Na-K) are crucial for neural signal transmission. Abnormalities in the WNK4 gene disrupt this process, preventing electrical stimulation from being transmitted to the muscles and resulting in the development of the disease.
