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Gap junctional intercellular communication in the juxtaglomerular apparatus

Jian Yao1, Takashi Oite, Masanori Kitamura

  • 1Department of Molecular Signaling, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine and Engineering, University of Yamanashi, Chuo, Yamanashi 409-3898, Japan. yao@yamanashi.ac.jp

American Journal of Physiology. Renal Physiology
|December 17, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Gap junctions in the juxtaglomerular apparatus (JGA) coordinate cell functions for blood pressure control. Intercellular calcium (Ca2+) signals mediated by gap junctions are crucial for JGA physiological responses.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Physiology
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • The juxtaglomerular apparatus (JGA) is vital for regulating blood pressure and ion balance.
  • It comprises diverse cells, including smooth muscle cells, endothelial cells, mesangial cells, macula densa cells, and renin-secreting cells.
  • Most JGA cells are interconnected by gap junctions, facilitating intercellular communication.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of gap junctions in the juxtaglomerular apparatus.
  • To highlight how gap junction-mediated intercellular calcium (Ca2+) signals influence JGA function.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent data on JGA gap junctions.
  • Analysis of studies investigating intercellular Ca2+ signaling in the JGA.

Main Results:

  • Gap junctions enable signal transduction and coordinated multicellular functions within the JGA.
  • Disruption of gap junction communication affects preglomerular vascular tone and renin secretion.
  • Intercellular Ca2+ signals transmitted through gap junctions are key determinants of JGA physiological responses.

Conclusions:

  • Gap junction-mediated communication is essential for JGA homeostasis and blood pressure regulation.
  • Understanding these intercellular signals provides insights into JGA physiology and potential therapeutic targets.

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