Potassium channels are present in most mammalian cells, where they participate in a wide range of physiologic responses. The protein encoded by this gene is an integral membrane protein and inward-rectifier type potassium channel. The encoded protein, which tends to allow potassium to flow into rather than out of a cell, can form heterodimers with two other inward-rectifier type potassium channels. It may function in fluid and pH balance regulation. Alternatively spliced transcript variants have been found for this gene.KCNJ16 (Potassium Voltage-Gated Channel Subfamily J Member 16) is a Protein Coding gene. Diseases associated with KCNJ16 include Sesame Syndrome and Campomelic Dysplasia. Among its related pathways are Inwardly rectifying K+ channels and GABA receptor activation. GO annotations related to this gene include inward rectifier potassium channel activity. An important paralog of this gene is KCNJ2.