Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 20, 2026

Implantation of a Cranial Window for Repeated In Vivo Imaging in Awake Mice
Published on: June 22, 2021
Activity-dependent plasticity of electrical synapses: increasing evidence for its presence and functional roles in
Julie S Haas1, Corey M Greenwald2, Alberto E Pereda3
1Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA, 18015, USA. julie.haas@lehigh.edu.
Abstract:
Gap junctions mediate electrical synaptic transmission between neurons. While the actions of neurotransmitter modulators on the conductance of gap junctions have been extensively documented, increasing evidence indicates they can also be influenced by the ongoing activity of neural networks, in most cases via local interactions with nearby glutamatergic synapses. We review here early evidence for the existence of activity-dependent regulatory mechanisms as well recent examples reported in mammalian brain. The ubiquitous distribution of both neuronal connexins and the molecules involved suggest this phenomenon is widespread and represents a property of electrical transmission in general.
Related Concept Videos
Neuroplasticity
Long-term Potentiation
Hebbian LTP
LTP can occur when...
Long-term Potentiation
Action Potential
Membrane potential in neurons
Neurons typically have a resting membrane potential of about -70 millivolts (mV). When they receive...

