Linked Life Data

15974969

Source:http://linkedlifedata.com/resource/pubmed/id/15974969

Statements in which the resource exists as a subject.
PredicateObject
rdf:type
lifeskim:mentions
pubmed:issue
15
pubmed:dateCreated
2005-6-24
pubmed:abstractText
Gap junctions are clusters of intercellular channels that provide morphological support for direct diffusion of ions and low-molecular-weight molecules between adjacent coupled cells. Each gap junction channel is made by docking of two hemichannels or connexons, each formed by assembly of six proteins (connexins). 21 members of the connexin gene family are likely to be expressed in the human genome. These ubiquitous gated channels, allowing rapid intercellular communication and synchronisation of coupled cell activities, play critical roles in many signalling processes, including co-ordinated cardiac and smooth muscle contractions, neuronal excitability, neurotransmitter release, insulin secretion, epithelial electrolyte transport, etc. Mutational alterations in the connexin genes are associated with the occurrence of multiple pathologies, such as peripheral neuropathies, cardiovascular diseases, dermatological diseases, hereditary deafness and cataract. But the neuro- and cardioprotective effects of blocking agents of junctional channels show that closure of these channels may also be beneficial in certain pathological situations. Consequently, modulation of gap junctional intercellular communication is a potential pharmacological target. In contrast to most other membrane channels, no natural toxin or specific inhibitor of junctional channels has been identified yet and most uncoupling agents generally also affect other ionic channels and receptors. Future research, based for example on the recent developments in genetics, may clarify gap junction physiology. This will in turn provide promising perspectives for the development of targeted drugs.
pubmed:language
eng
pubmed:journal
pubmed:citationSubset
IM
pubmed:chemical
pubmed:status
MEDLINE
pubmed:issn
1381-6128
pubmed:author
pubmed:issnType
Print
pubmed:volume
11
pubmed:owner
NLM
pubmed:authorsComplete
Y
pubmed:pagination
1941-58
pubmed:meshHeading
pubmed:year
2005
pubmed:articleTitle
Connexin-made channels as pharmacological targets.
pubmed:affiliation
Equipe "Interactions et Communications Cellulaires", Unité Mixte de Recherche CNRS n# 6187, Pôle Biologie-Santé, 40, avenue du R. Pineau, 86022 Poitiers, France. Jean.Claude.Herve@univ-poitiers.fr
pubmed:publicationType
Journal Article, Review