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Updated: Jun 22, 2026

Concentric Gel System to Study the Biophysical Role of Matrix Microenvironment on 3D Cell Migration
Published on: April 3, 2015
Connexins, cell motility, and the cytoskeleton
Stephan Olk1, Georg Zoidl, Rolf Dermietzel
1Department of Neuroanatomy and Molecular Brain Research, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany.
Abstract:
Connexins (Cx) comprise a family of transmembrane proteins, which form intercellular channels between plasma membranes of two adjoining cells, commonly known as gap junctions. Recent reports revealed that Cx proteins interact with diverse cellular components to form a multiprotein complex, which has been termed "Nexus". Potential interaction partners include proteins such as cytoskeletal proteins, scaffolding proteins, protein kinases and phosphatases. These interactions allow correct subcellular localization of Cxs and functional regulation of gap junction-mediated intercellular communication. Evidence is accruing that Cxs might have channel-independent functions, which potentially include regulation of cell migration, cell polarization and growth control. In the current review, we summarize recent knowledge on Cx interactions with cytoskeletal proteins and highlight some aspects of their role in cellular motility.
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