KAT1 — Arabidopsis thaliana

Summary

AT5G46240 (KAT1) encodes a voltage-sensitive potassium channel with Kir channel activity, belonging to the KAT/AKT family. In Arabidopsis thaliana, KAT1 is associated with guard cell ion flux, inward potassium currents, and defense against necrotrophic fungi. The gene is linked to potassium ion import across the plasma membrane, membrane polarization, and regulation of membrane potential. KAT1 has been connected to numerous traits including leaf necrosis tolerance, potassium concentration, water stress response, photosynthetic ability, turgor pressure, and sensitivity to far-red, red, and blue light. Additional associations include axillary bud dormancy, root fresh weight, leaf chlorophyll content, and relative growth rate. The gene is also associated with abscisic acid-mediated signaling and drought response pathways. Related genes in other species link the family to stomatal opening and closure, potassium homeostasis, and seed production.