New functions for gap junctions

Curr Opin Cell Biol. 1995 Oct;7(5):665-72. doi: 10.1016/0955-0674(95)80108-1.

Abstract

The most significant finding of the past year in gap junction research has been the association of connexin defects with human diseases. Connexin32 mutations cause X-linked Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a demyelinating peripheral neuropathy. Mutations in connexin43 may underlie cardiac malformations in visceroatrial heterotaxia syndromes. Genetic approaches and gene targeting have provided new insights, but also raise new questions concerning connexin function, the significance of connexin diversity and the regulation of intercellular communication.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Division / genetics
  • Cell Division / physiology
  • Connexins / genetics
  • Connexins / physiology*
  • Embryonic and Fetal Development / genetics
  • Embryonic and Fetal Development / physiology
  • Gap Junctions / genetics
  • Gap Junctions / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Mutation

Substances

  • Connexins