Review
Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology 4, 285-295 (April 2003) | doi:10.1038/nrm1072
Beyond the gap: functions of unpaired connexon channels
Daniel A. Goodenough1 About the author & David L. Paul2
Abstract
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.
- View At a Glance
Author affiliations
- Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
Correspondence to: Daniel A. Goodenough1 Email: daniel_goodenough@hms.harvard.edu
|
MORE ARTICLES LIKE THIS These links to content published by NPG are automatically generated NEWS AND VIEWS RESEARCH |
