Gap junctions.
Gap junctions are aggregates of intercellular channels that permit direct cell-cell transfer of ions and small molecules. Initially described as low-resistance ion pathways joining excitable cells (nerve and muscle), gap junctions are found joining virtually all cells in solid tissues. Their long evolutionary history has permitted adaptation of gap-junctional intercellular communication to a variety of functions, with multiple regulatory mechanisms. Gap-junctional channels are composed of hexamers of medium-sized families of integral proteins: connexins in chordates and innexins in precordates. The functions of gap junctions have been explored by studying mutations in flies, worms, and humans, and targeted gene disruption in mice. These studies have revealed a wide diversity of function in tissue and organ biology.
Goodenough
Daniel A
DA
Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA. dgoodenough@hms.harvard.edu
Paul
David L
DL
D000818:Animals; D002490:Central Nervous System / Q000378:metabolism; D017630:Connexins / Q000378:metabolism*; D017629:Gap Junctions / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology*; D018507:Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental; D022781:Hepatocytes / Q000166:cytology; D006801:Humans; D007908:Lens, Crystalline / Q000378:metabolism; D051379:Mice; D008954:Models, Biological; D009186:Myelin Sheath / Q000378:metabolism; D011994:Recombinant Proteins / Q000378:metabolism; D014961:X-Ray Diffraction
D017630:Connexins; D011994:Recombinant Proteins