Connexin gap junctions are found only in vertebrates, while a functionally analogous (but genetically unrelated) group of proteins, the innexins, are responsible for gap junctions in invertebrate species.

Recent studies have revealed complex translational and post-translational mechanisms that regulate connexin synthesis, maturation, membrane transport and degradation that in turn modulate gap junction intercellular communication.

Connexins (Cxs) form hemichannels and gap junction channels. Each gap junction channel is composed of two hemichannels, also termed connexons, one from each of the coupled cells. Hemichannels are hexamers assembled in the ER, the Golgi, or a post Golgi compartment.

Connexin proteins expressed in neuronal gap junctions include mCX36, mCX57, and mCX45, with mRNAs for at least five other connexins (mCx26, mCx30.2, mCx32, mCx43, mCx47) detected but without immunocytochemical evidence for the corresponding protein within ultrastructurally-defined gap junctions.

Sep 1, 2000 · Gap junctions are membrane channels that mediate the cell-to-cell movement of ions and small metabolites. In the heart, gap junctions play an important role in impulse conduction. Studies over the last decade have revealed that gap junctions are encoded by a multigene family known as the connexins.

Gap junctions are highly dynamic structures and by modulating the turnover rate of connexins, cells can rapidly alter the number of gap junction channels at the plasma membrane in response to extracellular or intracellular cues.

20 hours ago · Explore the distinct roles and structures of tight and gap junctions in cellular communication and tissue organization. ... The diversity of connexin proteins, with over 20 types identified in humans, adds complexity to gap junction functionality. Different tissues express specific connexin isoforms, influencing the permeability and regulatory ...

May 1, 2004 · Gap junctions (Gj) form conduits between adjacent cells that are composed of connexin (Cx) protein subunits and allow direct intercellular communication. To date, the connexin gene family comprises 20 members in the mouse and 21 members in the human genome, 19 of which can be grouped as sequence-ort …

In this review, we discuss briefly the role of connexins and gap junctions in various physiological and pathological processes, with special emphasis on cancer. We further discuss the application of nanotechnology and tissue engineering in developing …

Mar 1, 2005 · Gap junctions are channel-forming structures in contacting plasma membranes that allow direct metabolic and electrical communication between almost all cell types in the mammalian brain. At...