Biological Functions of Connexin43 Beyond Intercellular Communication
Tania Martins-Marques1, Teresa Ribeiro-Rodrigues1, Daniela Batista-Almeida1
1Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; CNC.IBILI, University of Coimbra, Portugal.
Trends in Cell Biology
|July 31, 2019
Summary
Connexin43 (Cx43) protein, known for cell communication, also regulates transcription, metabolism, and autophagy. This review explores Cx43's diverse, non-canonical functions and their disease implications.
Area of Science:
- Cellular Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Connexin43 (Cx43) is traditionally recognized for its role in cell-cell communication via gap junctions (GJs).
- Emerging evidence reveals Cx43's involvement in diverse cellular processes beyond GJs, including transcription, metabolism, autophagy, and ion channel trafficking.
- The precise mechanisms underlying these non-canonical functions are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the non-canonical roles of Connexin43 (Cx43).
- To discuss the implications of Cx43's diverse functions in human diseases.
- To explore potential future therapeutic strategies targeting Cx43.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent groundbreaking studies on Cx43.
- Analysis of Cx43's protein properties, including turnover rate, protein binding capacity, and truncated isoforms.
- Synthesis of current knowledge on Cx43's non-canonical functions.
Main Results:
- Cx43 acts as a central integrative hub, processing diverse cellular cues.
- Cx43 participates in critical cellular processes such as transcription, metabolism, autophagy, and ion channel trafficking.
- The high turnover rate and protein-binding capacity of Cx43 contribute to its multifaceted roles.
Conclusions:
- Cx43 exhibits significant non-canonical functions beyond its established role in gap junctions.
- Understanding these diverse roles is crucial for comprehending Cx43's involvement in human diseases.
- Targeting Cx43's non-canonical functions may offer novel therapeutic avenues.
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