Cx36 involvement in insulin secretion: characteristics and mechanism

Gap junctions connect the pancreatic beta-cells which produce insulin. To investigate their function, we have first determined that these junctions are made of Cx36. We have then tested the effect of changing the expression of Cx36, and other connexin isoforms, and have found that Cx36 modulates insulin secretion. In view of the prominent role of cytosolic Ca(2+) in this secretion, we have monitored this cation, and have found that its handling is altered in populations of insulin-producing cells lacking Cx36. The data identify a first molecular link between Cx36 and the stimulus-secretion pathway leading to insulin secretion.