Mechanisms Underlying Connexin Hemichannel Activation in Disease
Raf Van Campenhout, Ana Rita Gomes, Timo W.M. De Groof, Serge Muyldermans, Nick Devoogdt, Mathieu Vinken
Abstract
Gap junctions and connexin hemichannels mediate intercellular and extracellular communication, respectively. While gap junctions are seen as the "good guys" by controlling homeostasis, connexin hemichannels are considered as the "bad guys", as their activation is associated with the onset and dissemination of disease. Open connexin hemichannels indeed mediate the transport of messengers between the cytosol and extracellular environment and, by doing so, fuel inflammation and cell death in a plethora of diseases. The present mini-review discusses the mechanisms involved in the activation of connexin hemichannels during pathology.
Topics & Concepts
ConnexinGap junctionExtracellularCell biologyPannexinConnexonIntracellularInflammationCytosolBiologyNeuroscienceChemistryImmunologyBiochemistryEnzymeConnexins and lens biologyHeme Oxygenase-1 and Carbon MonoxideSmoking Behavior and Cessation