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Gap junction mediated bioelectric coordination is required for slow muscle development, organization, and function
Biorxiv : the Preprint Server for Biology
|January 8, 2024
Summary
Bioelectrical signaling via connexin 46.8 (Cx46.8) is crucial for zebrafish slow muscle development. This gap junction protein synchronizes neural activity, ensuring proper muscle function and behavior.
Area of Science:
- Developmental biology
- Neuroscience
- Cell biology
Background:
- Bioelectrical signaling, mediated by membrane potential and electrochemical coupling, regulates animal development.
- Gap junction (GJ) channels, formed by Connexins, facilitate intercellular communication for bioelectric signaling.
Approach:
- Utilized embryonic zebrafish neuromuscular system as a model.
- Combined mutant analysis, in vivo imaging, genetics, pharmacology, and calcium imaging.
- Identified the connexin gene gjd4, encoding Cx46.8, as critical for bioelectric signaling.
Key Points:
- gjd4/Cx46.8 forms GJ channels in developing slow muscle cells.
- Neural activity from the spinal cord transmits to slow muscle cells via gjd4/Cx46.8.
- Bioelectrical signal propagation is essential for myofiber organization and normal behavior.
Conclusions:
- Revealed the molecular basis of GJ communication in developing muscle cells.
- Demonstrated that gjd4/Cx46.8 mediates bioelectric signaling for slow muscle development and function.
- Highlighted the role of GJ communication in coordinating inter-organ system bioelectric signaling during development and its implications for developmental myopathies.
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