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Papers of the Week


Papers: 23 Feb 2019 - 1 Mar 2019


2019


Front Mol Neurosci


12

Connexin Hemichannels in Astrocytes: Role in CNS Disorders.

Authors

Xing LY, Yang T, Cui SS, Chen G
Front Mol Neurosci. 2019; 12:23.
PMID: 30787868.

Abstract

In the central nervous system (CNS), astrocytes form networks interconnected by gap junctions made from connexins of the subtypes Cx30 and Cx43. When unopposed by an adjoining hemichannel, astrocytic connexins can act as hemichannels to control the release of small molecules such as ATP and glutamate into the extracellular space. Accruing evidence indicates that astrocytic connexins are crucial for the coordination and maintenance of physiologic CNS activity. Here we provide an update on the role of astrocytic connexins in neurodegenerative disorders, glioma, and ischemia. In addition, we address the regulation of Cx43 in chronic pain.