Anatomy and Cell Biology Publications
Title
Therapeutic strategies targeting connexins
Document Type
Review
Publication Date
12-2018
Issue
12
Journal
Nature Reviews Drug Discovery
Volume
17
First Page
905
Last Page
921
URL with Digital Object Identifier
https://doi.org/10.1038/nrd.2018.138
Abstract
The connexin family of channel-forming proteins is present in every tissue type in the human anatomy. Connexins are best known for forming clustered intercellular channels, structurally known as gap junctions, where they serve to exchange members of the metabolome between adjacent cells. In their single-membrane hemichannel form, connexins can act as conduits for the passage of small molecules in autocrine and paracrine signalling. Here, we review the roles of connexins in health and disease, focusing on the potential of connexins as therapeutic targets in acquired and inherited diseases as well as wound repair, while highlighting the associated clinical challenges.
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