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Updated: Jul 11, 2026
05:51
A Human Ex Vivo Atherosclerotic Plaque Model to Study Lesion Biology
Published on: May 6, 2014
Connexins: new genes in atherosclerosis
Christos E Chadjichristos1, Brenda R Kwak
1Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland.
Annals of Medicine
|September 14, 2007
Summary
Connexins, crucial for cell communication, are implicated in atherosclerosis development. Altered connexin expression and gap junction communication in vascular cells contribute to this progressive disease.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Biology
- Cellular Communication
- Pathogenesis of Atherosclerosis
Background:
- Atherosclerosis is a leading cause of death, driven by complex interactions in vascular cells.
- Paracrine signaling is established, but gap junction communication's role is emerging.
- Gap junctions, formed by connexins, directly link adjacent cell cytoplasms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evidence linking connexins to atherosclerosis.
- To explore how connexin expression and function are altered in the disease.
- To discuss the therapeutic potential of targeting connexins in atherosclerosis.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on connexins and atherosclerosis.
- Analysis of studies showing altered connexin expression in atherosclerotic plaques.
- Examination of in vitro studies on vascular cells and connexin function.
- Evaluation of data from genetically modified mouse models of atherosclerosis.
Main Results:
- Vascular connexin expression patterns change during atherosclerotic plaque development.
- Disturbances like altered blood flow, cholesterol, and inflammation affect connexin expression and gap junction communication in vitro.
- Genetic modification of connexin expression impacts atherosclerosis progression in animal models.
Conclusions:
- Connexins play a significant role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.
- Modulating connexin function represents a potential therapeutic strategy for atherosclerotic disease.
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