Gap junctions and connexin hemichannels underpin hemostasis and thrombosis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Connexins are a widespread family of membrane proteins that assemble into hexameric hemichannels, also known as connexons. Connexons regulate membrane permeability in individual cells or couple between adjacent cells to form gap junctions and thereby provide a pathway for regulated intercellular communication. We have examined the role of connexins in platelets, blood cells that circulate in isolation but on tissue injury adhere to each other and the vessel wall to prevent blood loss and to facilitate wound repair.

Methods and results

We report the presence of connexins in platelets, notably connexin37, and that the formation of gap junctions within platelet thrombi is required for the control of clot retraction. Inhibition of connexin function modulated a range o

SUBMITTER: Vaiyapuri S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3378664 | biostudies-literature | 2012 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature