KCNQ3 and hearing loss disorder: Although KCNQ3 has not been previously reported in association with hearing loss, family members of this gene, including KCNQ1 and KCNQ4, have been reported associated with NIHL [32], [33] which supports the possible role of KCNQ3. Changes in KCNQ3 activation alone have been linked with induction of tinnitus [58], while the dimerization of KCNQ3 with other potassium channels seems to be essential for hearing.