IL18 (IFN-gamma-inducing factor, IGIF) is a novel pro-inflammatory cytokine that augments natural killer (NK) activity in spleen cells. This cytokine can induce the IFN-gamma production of T cells. The combination of this cytokine and IL12 has been shown to inhibit IL4 dependent IgE and IgG1 production, and enhance IgG2a production of B cells. IL18 binding protein (IL18BP) can specifically interact with this cytokine, and thus negatively regulate its biological activity.

This gene encodes the major type IV alpha collagen chain of basement membranes. Like the other members of the type IV collagen gene family, this gene is organized in a head-to-head conformation with another type IV collagen gene so that each gene pair shares a common promoter. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008]

GRO beta is a member of the CXC, or chemokine class. It contains the ELR domain immediately preceding the first cysteine residue near the amino terminus. Other chemokines in this group include IL8, GRO alpha/beta/gamma, mouse KC, ENA78, GCP2, PBP/CTAPIII/beta TG/NAP2. These chemokines act primarily on neutrophils as chemoattractants and activators, including neutrophil degradation with release of myloperoxidase and other enzymes. GRO beta was originally identified as a heparin-binding protein

Potassium channels represent the most complex class of voltage-gated ion channels from both functional and structural standpoints. Their diverse functions include regulating neurotransmitter release, heart rate, insulin secretion, neuronal excitability, epithelial electrolyte transport, smooth muscle contraction, and cell volume. Four sequence-related potassium channel genes - shaker, shaw, shab, and shal - have been identified in Drosophila, and each has been shown to have human homolog(s)

This gene encodes an enzyme which catalyzes the biosynthesis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. This gene product is a characteristic feature of cholinergic neurons, and changes in these neurons may explain some of the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Polymorphisms in this gene have been associated with Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment. Mutations in this gene are associated with congenital myasthenic syndrome associated with episodic apnea. Multiple transcript variants

The protein encoded by this gene is a vesicle-bound, sodium-dependent phosphate transporter that is specifically expressed in the neuron-rich regions of the brain. It is preferentially associated with the membranes of synaptic vesicles and functions in glutamate transport. The protein shares 82% identity with the differentiation-associated Na-dependent inorganic phosphate cotransporter and they appear to form a distinct class within the Na+/Pi cotransporter family. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 20