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Connexins in the Central Nervous System: Physiological Traits and Neuroprotective Targets
- Source :
- Frontiers in Physiology, Vol 8 (2017)
- Publication Year :
- 2017
- Publisher :
- Frontiers Media S.A., 2017.
-
Abstract
- Cell-to-cell interaction and cell-to-extracellular environment communication are emerging as new therapeutic targets in neurodegenerative disorders. Dynamic expression of connexins leads to distinctive hemichannels and gap junctions, characterized by cell-specific conduction, exchange of stimuli or metabolites, and particular channel functions. Herein, we briefly reviewed classical physiological traits and functions of connexins, hemichannels, and gap junctions, in order to discuss the controversial role of these proteins and their mediated interactions during neuroprotection, with a particular focus on Cx43-based channels. We pointed out the contribution of connexins in neural cells populations during neurodegenerative processes to explore potential neuroprotective therapeutic applications.
- Subjects :
- gap junction
hemichannel
connexin
neurodegeneration
neuroprotection
Physiology
QP1-981
Subjects
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 1664042X
- Volume :
- 8
- Database :
- Directory of Open Access Journals
- Journal :
- Frontiers in Physiology
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- edsdoj.2f73e979a3bb4fe2be098ebefaa3f578
- Document Type :
- article
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2017.01060