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Gap junctions and the propagation of cell survival and cell death signals

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Abstract

Gap junctions are a unique type of intercellular channels that connect the cytoplasm of adjoining cells. Each gap junction channel is comprised of two hemichannels or connexons and each connexon is formed by the aggregation of six protein subunits known as connexins. Gap junction channels allow the intercellular passage of small (< 1.5 kDa) molecules and regulate essential processes during development and differentiation. However, their role in cell survival and cell death is poorly understood. We review experimental data that support the hypothesis that gap junction channels may propagate cell death and survival modulating signals. In addition, we explore the hypothesis that hemichannels (or unapposed connexons) might be used as a paracrine conduit to spread factors that modulate the fate of the surrounding cells. Finally, direct signal transduction activity of connexins in cell death and survival pathways is addressed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Human Anatomy, Embryology, Histology and Medical Physics, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium

    D. V. Krysko & K. D’Herde

  2. Molecular Signaling and Cell Death Unit, Department of Molecular Biomedical Research, VIB, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium

    D. V. Krysko & P. Vandenabeele

  3. Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium

    L. Leybaert

  4. Department of Human Anatomy, Embryology, Histology and Medical Physics, Godshuizenlaan, 4, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium

    D. V. Krysko

Authors
  1. D. V. Krysko
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  2. L. Leybaert
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  3. P. Vandenabeele
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  4. K. D’Herde
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to D. V. Krysko.

Additional information

These authors share senior authorship.

This study was supported by Ghent University GOA grant no. 12050502.

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Krysko, D.V., Leybaert, L., Vandenabeele, P. et al. Gap junctions and the propagation of cell survival and cell death signals. Apoptosis 10, 459–469 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10495-005-1875-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10495-005-1875-2

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