Shaker (gene)

The Shaker gene is a gene that encodes a voltage-gated potassium channel in the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster. This gene is crucial for the proper functioning of the nervous system, as it plays a key role in regulating the resting membrane potential and repolarization of neurons. The Shaker gene is often cited in research on ion channels and neurobiology, as its mutations can lead to altered electrical properties of neurons, impacting behaviors such as locomotion and muscle contraction.