Beyond the gap: functions of unpaired connexon channels.
Gap junctions consist of intercellular channels that connect the cytoplasm of adjacent cells directly and allow the exchange of small molecules. These channels are unique in that they span two plasma membranes--the more orthodox ion or ligand-gated channels span only one. Each cell contributes half of the intercellular channel, and each half is known as a connexon or hemichannel. Recent studies indicate that connexons are also active in single plasma membranes and that they might be essential in intercellular signalling beyond their incorporation into gap junctions.
Goodenough
Daniel A
DA
Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA. daniel_goodenough@hms.harvard.edu
Paul
David L
DL
D000818:Animals; D020013:Calcium Signaling / Q000502:physiology; D002607:Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease / Q000235:genetics; D017630:Connexins / Q000502:physiology* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D017629:Gap Junctions / Q000502:physiology* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D006801:Humans; D007365:Intercellular Junctions / Q000502:physiology / Q000648:ultrastructure; D007473:Ion Channels / Q000502:physiology; D008565:Membrane Proteins / Q000502:physiology* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D008954:Models, Biological
D017630:Connexins; D007473:Ion Channels; D008565:Membrane Proteins