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Updated: Sep 5, 2025
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Mechanical Stimulation-induced Calcium Wave Propagation in Cell Monolayers: The Example of Bovine Corneal Endothelial Cells
Published on: July 16, 2013
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Connexin and Pannexin Large-Pore Channels in Microcirculation and Neurovascular Coupling Function.
Pía C Burboa1,2, Mariela Puebla2, Pablo S Gaete3
1Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Neuroscience, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, 185 South Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103, USA.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|July 9, 2022
Summary
Connexin and Pannexin channels are vital for microcirculation and neurovascular coupling. Their proper function maintains vascular homeostasis, while dysfunction leads to tissue damage.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Molecular Biology
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- Microcirculation homeostasis relies on ion and small molecule channels.
- Connexins (Cxs) and Pannexins (Panxs) are large-pore channel proteins crucial for vascular physiology.
- These channels regulate vasomotor tone, hyperpermeability, blood-brain barrier, and neurovascular coupling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the physiological roles of Connexin and Pannexin channels.
- To highlight their function in microcirculation (arterioles, capillaries, venules).
- To discuss their involvement in neurovascular coupling.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current knowledge.
- Focus on the physiological functions of Cxs and Panxs.
- Analysis of channel roles in vascular homeostasis and neurovascular coupling.
Main Results:
- Cxs and Panxs facilitate the permeation of ions (e.g., Ca2+) and metabolites (e.g., ATP, D-serine).
- These channels are essential for intercellular communication and maintaining vascular homeostasis.
- Dysregulation or genetic defects in these channels can cause detrimental tissue effects.
Conclusions:
- Connexin and Pannexin channels are critical for microcirculation and neurovascular coupling.
- Their roles in ion and metabolite transport are fundamental to vascular health.
- Understanding these channels is key to addressing vascular pathologies.
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