Jove
Visualize
Contact Us
JoVE
x logofacebook logolinkedin logoyoutube logo
ABOUT JoVE
OverviewLeadershipBlogJoVE Help Center
AUTHORS
Publishing ProcessEditorial BoardScope & PoliciesPeer ReviewFAQSubmit
LIBRARIANS
TestimonialsSubscriptionsAccessResourcesLibrary Advisory BoardFAQ
RESEARCH
JoVE JournalMethods CollectionsJoVE Encyclopedia of ExperimentsArchive
EDUCATION
JoVE CoreJoVE BusinessJoVE Science EducationJoVE Lab ManualFaculty Resource CenterFaculty Site
Terms & Conditions of Use
Privacy Policy
Policies

Related Concept Videos

Gap Junctions01:37

Gap Junctions

Multicellular organisms employ a variety of ways for cells to communicate with each other. Gap junctions are specialized proteins that form pores between neighboring cells in animals, connecting the cytoplasm between the two, and allowing for the exchange of molecules and ions. They are found in a wide range of invertebrate and vertebrate species, mediate numerous functions including cell differentiation and development, and are associated with numerous human diseases, including cardiac and...
Gap Junctions01:27

Gap Junctions

The cytoplasm of adjacent animal cells can exchange small molecules, ions, and secondary messengers via the communication channels which form the gap junctions. These junctions comprise a few hundred to thousands of molecular channels, each made of two halves, called the connexon hemichannel. A connexon is a hexamer of six transmembrane connexin proteins, which assemble radially, thus forming a pore or channel in the center. One connexon hemichannel docks with a corresponding connexon on the...
Overview of Synapses01:25

Overview of Synapses

A synapse is a specialized structure where two neurons connect, allowing them to pass an electrical or chemical signal to another neuron. It is the point of communication between neurons. The term "synapse" is derived from the Greek word "synapsis," which means "conjunction." The entire process of neural communication revolves around the synapse. When activated, a neuron releases chemicals known as neurotransmitters into the synapse. These neurotransmitters cross the synapse and bind to...
Functional Brain Systems: Limbic System01:15

Functional Brain Systems: Limbic System

The limbic system, often called the "emotional brain," is a complex set of structures located deep within the brain. The intricate network of the limbic system supports a wide range of psychological functions, from emotional regulation to memory formation and sensory processing. This functional brain region encompasses specific parts of the diencephalon and the cerebrum, integrating the higher mental functions of the cerebral cortex with the primitive emotional responses of the deep brain...
Organization of the Brain01:30

Organization of the Brain

The brain is an integral component of the nervous system and serves as the center for processing sensory inputs, making decisions, and directing bodily actions. This complex organ is organized into three primary sections: the hindbrain, midbrain, and forebrain, each responsible for a range of vital functions.
Hindbrain
The hindbrain, located at the base of the brain, plays a vital role in regulating automatic processes that sustain life. It includes the medulla oblongata, which is essential for...
Gut-Brain Axis01:22

Gut-Brain Axis

The gut–brain axis is a bidirectional communication system that connects the gastrointestinal tract and the brain. This interaction is mediated through multiple pathways, including the vagus nerve, hormonal signals, immune responses, and chemical messengers produced by gut microbes.Microbial Contributions to Brain FunctionGut microbiota contributes significantly to brain function by producing neuroactive compounds. These include neuroactive compounds that influence neurotransmitters such as...

You might also read

Related Articles

Articles linked to this work by shared authors, journal, and citation graph.

Sort by
Same author

A study of factors influencing access to MDT among patients with stage III to stage IV colorectal cancer: a national multicenter survey.

Frontiers in oncology·2026
Same author

Slow-wave sleep engages brainstem circuitry to prevent stress-induced anxiety.

Neuron·2026
Same author

Transthyretin-mediated regulation of neuropathic pain and anxiety-like behavior in the lateral parabrachial nucleus.

Cell reports·2026
Same author

Study on the Effect of Puerarin-Gadolinium on Rheumatoid Arthritis Rats based on Nontargeted Metabolomics Technology.

ACS pharmacology & translational science·2025
Same author

Medial preoptic CCKAR mediates anxiety and aggression induced by chronic emotional stress in male mice.

National science review·2025
Same author

A Comparative CT Study on Anatomical Characteristics of Pediatric Habitual Patellar Dislocation in Extension and Flexion.

Orthopaedic surgery·2025
Same journal

[Association between blood mitochondrial DNA copy number and adverse pregnancy outcomes: a Mendelian randomization analysis].

Zhejiang da xue xue bao. Yi xue ban = Journal of Zhejiang University. Medical sciences·2026
Same journal

[Network pharmacology-based investigation of the therapeutic efficacy and molecular targets of Xiangsha Liujunzi Decoction in thyroid cancer].

Zhejiang da xue xue bao. Yi xue ban = Journal of Zhejiang University. Medical sciences·2026
Same journal

[En-bloc resection of thyroid cancer using recurrent laryngeal nerve tunnel dissection combined with mesangectomy: a retro-spective analysis of 174 cases].

Zhejiang da xue xue bao. Yi xue ban = Journal of Zhejiang University. Medical sciences·2026
Same journal

[Methyltransferase-like protein 7B promotes glycolysis and malignant progression in papillary thyroid carcinoma via the USP28/HIF-1α axis].

Zhejiang da xue xue bao. Yi xue ban = Journal of Zhejiang University. Medical sciences·2026
Same journal

[Preparation of all-trans retinoic acid and irinotecan co-loaded liposomes and their <i>in vitro</i> evaluation against anaplastic thyroid cancer].

Zhejiang da xue xue bao. Yi xue ban = Journal of Zhejiang University. Medical sciences·2026
Same journal

[Service system models for adolescent mental health in different institutional contexts and their implications for China].

Zhejiang da xue xue bao. Yi xue ban = Journal of Zhejiang University. Medical sciences·2026
See all related articles

Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 16, 2026

Cut-loading: A Useful Tool for Examining the Extent of Gap Junction Tracer Coupling Between Retinal Neurons
10:11

Cut-loading: A Useful Tool for Examining the Extent of Gap Junction Tracer Coupling Between Retinal Neurons

Published on: January 12, 2012

[Gap junction and function of brain].

Han-xiao Yu1, Yan-qin Yu

  • 1Department of Physiology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.

Zhejiang Da Xue Xue Bao. Yi Xue Ban = Journal of Zhejiang University. Medical Sciences
|December 15, 2012
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Gap junctions facilitate intercellular communication in the brain by enabling ion and small molecule transfer between glial cells and neurons. This communication is vital for overall brain function.

More Related Videos

A Functional Assay for Gap Junctional Examination; Electroporation of Adherent Cells on Indium-Tin Oxide
11:02

A Functional Assay for Gap Junctional Examination; Electroporation of Adherent Cells on Indium-Tin Oxide

Published on: October 18, 2014

Modeling Biological Membranes with Circuit Boards and Measuring Electrical Signals in Axons: Student Laboratory Exercises
13:56

Modeling Biological Membranes with Circuit Boards and Measuring Electrical Signals in Axons: Student Laboratory Exercises

Published on: January 18, 2011

Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: May 16, 2026

Cut-loading: A Useful Tool for Examining the Extent of Gap Junction Tracer Coupling Between Retinal Neurons
10:11

Cut-loading: A Useful Tool for Examining the Extent of Gap Junction Tracer Coupling Between Retinal Neurons

Published on: January 12, 2012

A Functional Assay for Gap Junctional Examination; Electroporation of Adherent Cells on Indium-Tin Oxide
11:02

A Functional Assay for Gap Junctional Examination; Electroporation of Adherent Cells on Indium-Tin Oxide

Published on: October 18, 2014

Modeling Biological Membranes with Circuit Boards and Measuring Electrical Signals in Axons: Student Laboratory Exercises
13:56

Modeling Biological Membranes with Circuit Boards and Measuring Electrical Signals in Axons: Student Laboratory Exercises

Published on: January 18, 2011

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Cell Biology
  • Biochemistry

Context:

  • Gap junctions are protein channels facilitating direct cell-to-cell communication.
  • Mammalian nervous systems express over 10 connexin types, crucial for glial and neuronal function.
  • Astrocytes and oligodendrocytes exhibit specific connexin expression patterns.

Purpose:

  • To review recent literature on the role of gap junctions in the nervous system.
  • To highlight the importance of intercellular communication mediated by gap junctions.
  • To underscore the significance of gap junctions for brain function.

Summary:

  • Gap junctions, formed by connexins, allow transport of ions and small molecules between cells.
  • Specific connexins are expressed in astrocytes and oligodendrocytes, mediating glial cell communication.
  • Intercellular communication via gap junctions between glial cells, neurons, and astrocytes is essential for brain functions.

Impact:

  • Provides a comprehensive overview of gap junction roles in neural communication.
  • Emphasizes the critical contribution of glial and neuronal gap junctions to brain function.
  • Serves as a resource for understanding the molecular basis of neural network communication.