Probing the function of connexin channels in primary tissues.
Connexin channels provide for a widespread mechanism of cell-to-cell cross-talk within primary tissues, which is mediated by intercellular exchanges of cytoplasmic ions and molecules. Experimental and clinical studies have recently provided evidence that these exchanges are most likely to play multiple roles, which are critical for the proper development and function of primary tissues. There is also increasing evidence that major clinical disorders may result when the formation and function of connexin channels are altered. Still, the physiological functions that the cell-to-cell communication mediated by connexin channels subserve in most primary tissues are still uncertain. Here, I review two approaches that may aid in identifying these specific functions.
Meda
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Department of Morphology, University of Geneva Medical School, 1, rue Michel Servet, Geneva 4, CH-1211, Switzerland. Paolo.Meda@medecine.unige.ch
D000818:Animals; D002450:Cell Communication / Q000502:physiology*; D002462:Cell Membrane / Q000502:physiology; D017630:Connexins / Q000502:physiology*; D004594:Electrophysiology / Q000379:methods; D005456:Fluorescent Dyes; D017629:Gap Junctions / Q000502:physiology*; D007473:Ion Channels / Q000502:physiology; D008845:Microinjections / Q000379:methods
D017630:Connexins; D005456:Fluorescent Dyes; D007473:Ion Channels