KCNJ10 is a gene that provides instructions for making a protein known as an inwardly rectifying potassium channel. This protein plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of potassium ions in and out of cells, which is essential for maintaining the electrical balance and proper functioning of various tissues, particularly in the heart and inner ear. Mutations in the KCNJ10 gene can lead to health issues, such as Kearns-Sayre syndrome and sensorineural hearing loss. These conditions highlight the importance of potassium channels in cellular processes and the potential consequences of genetic alterations affecting their function.