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Yan Q, Feng Z, Jiang B, Yao J. Biological functions of connexins in the development of inflammatory bowel disease. Scand J Gastroenterol 2024; 59:142-149. [PMID: 37837320 DOI: 10.1080/00365521.2023.2267713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of chronic intestinal inflammatory diseases with unknown etiology. Gap junctions composed of connexins (Cxs) have been recently validated as an important factor in the development of IBD. Under IBD-induced inflammatory response in the gut, gap junctions connect multiple signaling pathways involved in the interaction between inflammatory cells with other intestinal cells, which altogether mediate the development of IBD. This paper is a narrative review aiming to comprehensively elucidate the biological function of connexins, especially the ubiquitously and predominantly expressed Cx43, in the pathogenesis of IBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaojing Yan
- Colorectal Surgery Center, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
- Jiangsu Province Traditional Chinese Medicine Innovation Center for Anorectal Disease, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhiling Feng
- Colorectal Surgery Center, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Bin Jiang
- Colorectal Surgery Center, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
- Jiangsu Province Traditional Chinese Medicine Innovation Center for Anorectal Disease, Nanjing, China
| | - Jian Yao
- Division of Molecular Signaling, Department of the Advanced Biomedical Research, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Chuo, Japan
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2
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Petit C, Bonnet C, Safieddine S. Deafness: from genetic architecture to gene therapy. Nat Rev Genet 2023; 24:665-686. [PMID: 37173518 DOI: 10.1038/s41576-023-00597-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Progress in deciphering the genetic architecture of human sensorineural hearing impairment (SNHI) or loss, and multidisciplinary studies of mouse models, have led to the elucidation of the molecular mechanisms underlying auditory system function, primarily in the cochlea, the mammalian hearing organ. These studies have provided unparalleled insights into the pathophysiological processes involved in SNHI, paving the way for the development of inner-ear gene therapy based on gene replacement, gene augmentation or gene editing. The application of these approaches in preclinical studies over the past decade has highlighted key translational opportunities and challenges for achieving effective, safe and sustained inner-ear gene therapy to prevent or cure monogenic forms of SNHI and associated balance disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Petit
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Inserm, Institut de l'Audition, F-75012, Paris, France.
- Collège de France, F-75005, Paris, France.
| | - Crystel Bonnet
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Inserm, Institut de l'Audition, F-75012, Paris, France
| | - Saaïd Safieddine
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Inserm, Institut de l'Audition, F-75012, Paris, France
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, F-75016, Paris, France
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3
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Vega JL, Gutiérrez C, Rojas M, Güiza J, Sáez JC. Contribution of large-pore channels to inflammation induced by microorganisms. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 10:1094362. [PMID: 36699007 PMCID: PMC9868820 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1094362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Plasma membrane ionic channels selectively permeate potassium, sodium, calcium, and chloride ions. However, large-pore channels are permeable to ions and small molecules such as ATP and glutamate, among others. Large-pore channels are structures formed by several protein families with little or no evolutionary linkages including connexins (Cxs), pannexins (Panxs), innexin (Inxs), unnexins (Unxs), calcium homeostasis modulator (CALHMs), and Leucine-rich repeat-containing 8 (LRRC8) proteins. Large-pore channels are key players in inflammatory cell response, guiding the activation of inflammasomes, the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1 beta (IL-1ß), and the release of adenosine-5'-triphosphate (ATP), which is considered a danger signal. This review summarizes our current understanding of large-pore channels and their contribution to inflammation induced by microorganisms, virulence factors or their toxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- José L. Vega
- Laboratory of Gap Junctions Proteins and Parasitic Diseases (GaPaL), Instituto Antofagasta, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile,Centro de Investigación en Inmunología y Biotecnología Biomédica de Antofagasta (CIIBBA), Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile,Centro de Fisiología y Medicina de Altura (FIMEDALT), Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile,*Correspondence: José L. Vega,
| | - Camila Gutiérrez
- Laboratory of Gap Junctions Proteins and Parasitic Diseases (GaPaL), Instituto Antofagasta, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Mauro Rojas
- Laboratory of Gap Junctions Proteins and Parasitic Diseases (GaPaL), Instituto Antofagasta, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Juan Güiza
- Laboratory of Gap Junctions Proteins and Parasitic Diseases (GaPaL), Instituto Antofagasta, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Juan C. Sáez
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias de Valparaíso (CINV), Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
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Phillips CL, Welch BA, Garrett MR, Grayson BE. Regional heterogeneity in rat Peyer's patches through whole transcriptome analysis. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2021; 246:513-522. [PMID: 33236653 PMCID: PMC7934146 DOI: 10.1177/1535370220973014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Peyer's patches are gut-associated lymphoid tissue located throughout the intestinal wall. Peyer's patches consist of highly organized ovoid-shaped follicles, classified as non-encapsulated lymphatic tissues, populated with B cells, T cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells and function as an organism's intestinal surveillance. Limited work compares the gene profiles of Peyer's patches derived from different intestinal regions. In the current study, we first performed whole transcriptome analysis using RNAseq to compare duodenal and ileal Peyer's patches obtained from the small intestine of Long Evans rats. Of the 12,300 genes that were highly expressed, 18.5% were significantly different between the duodenum and ileum. Using samples obtained from additional subjects (n = 10), we validated the novel gene expression patterns in Peyer's patches obtained from the three regions of the small intestine. Rats had a significantly reduced number of Peyer's patches in the duodenum in comparison to either the jejunum or ileum. Regional differences in structural, metabolic, and immune-related genes were validated. Genes such as alcohol dehydrogenase 1, gap junction protein beta 2, and serine peptidase inhibitor clade b, member 1a were significantly reduced in the ileum in comparison to other regions. On the other hand, genes such as complement C3d receptor type, lymphocyte cytosolic protein 1, and lysozyme C2 precursor were significantly lower in the duodenum. In summary, the gene expression pattern of Peyer's patches is influenced by intestinal location and may contribute to its role in that segment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles L Phillips
- Program in Pathology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomical Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA
| | - Bradley A Welch
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomical Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA
| | - Michael R Garrett
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA
| | - Bernadette E Grayson
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomical Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA
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Garcia-Vega L, O’Shaughnessy EM, Albuloushi A, Martin PE. Connexins and the Epithelial Tissue Barrier: A Focus on Connexin 26. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10010059. [PMID: 33466954 PMCID: PMC7829877 DOI: 10.3390/biology10010059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Tissues that face the external environment are known as ‘epithelial tissue’ and form barriers between different body compartments. This includes the outer layer of the skin, linings of the intestine and airways that project into the lumen connecting with the external environment, and the cornea of the eye. These tissues do not have a direct blood supply and are dependent on exchange of regulatory molecules between cells to ensure co-ordination of tissue events. Proteins known as connexins form channels linking cells directly and permit exchange of small regulatory signals. A range of environmental stimuli can dysregulate the level of connexin proteins and or protein function within the epithelia, leading to pathologies including non-healing wounds. Mutations in these proteins are linked with hearing loss, skin and eye disorders of differing severity. As such, connexins emerge as prime therapeutic targets with several agents currently in clinical trials. This review outlines the role of connexins in epithelial tissue and how their dysregulation contributes to pathological pathways. Abstract Epithelial tissue responds rapidly to environmental triggers and is constantly renewed. This tissue is also highly accessible for therapeutic targeting. This review highlights the role of connexin mediated communication in avascular epithelial tissue. These proteins form communication conduits with the extracellular space (hemichannels) and between neighboring cells (gap junctions). Regulated exchange of small metabolites less than 1kDa aide the co-ordination of cellular activities and in spatial communication compartments segregating tissue networks. Dysregulation of connexin expression and function has profound impact on physiological processes in epithelial tissue including wound healing. Connexin 26, one of the smallest connexins, is expressed in diverse epithelial tissue and mutations in this protein are associated with hearing loss, skin and eye conditions of differing severity. The functional consequences of dysregulated connexin activity is discussed and the development of connexin targeted therapeutic strategies highlighted.
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Mammano F. Inner Ear Connexin Channels: Roles in Development and Maintenance of Cochlear Function. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2019; 9:a033233. [PMID: 30181354 PMCID: PMC6601451 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a033233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Connexin 26 and connexin 30 are the prevailing isoforms in the epithelial and connective tissue gap junction systems of the developing and mature cochlea. The most frequently encountered variants of the genes that encode these connexins, which are transcriptionally coregulated, determine complete loss of protein function and are the predominant cause of prelingual hereditary deafness. Reducing connexin 26 expression by Cre/loxP recombination in the inner ear of adult mice results in a decreased endocochlear potential, increased hearing thresholds, and loss of >90% of outer hair cells, indicating that this connexin is essential for maintenance of cochlear function. In the developing cochlea, connexins are necessary for intercellular calcium signaling activity. Ribbon synapses and basolateral membrane currents fail to mature in inner hair cells of mice that are born with reduced connexin expression, even though hair cells do not express any connexin. In contrast, pannexin 1, an alternative mediator of intercellular signaling, is dispensable for hearing acquisition and auditory function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Mammano
- University of Padova, Department of Physics and Astronomy "G. Galilei," Padova 35129, Italy
- CNR Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, Monterotondo 00015, Italy
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
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Gleisner MA, Navarrete M, Hofmann F, Salazar-Onfray F, Tittarelli A. Mind the Gaps in Tumor Immunity: Impact of Connexin-Mediated Intercellular Connections. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1067. [PMID: 28919895 PMCID: PMC5585150 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions (GJs)-mediated intercellular communications (GJICs) are connexin (Cx)-formed plasma membrane channels that allow for the passage of small molecules between adjacent cells, and are involved in several physiopathological processes, including immune responses against cancer. In general, tumor cells are poorly coupled through GJs, mainly due to low Cx expression or reduced channel activity, suggesting that Cxs may have tumor suppressor roles. However, more recent data indicate that Cxs and/or GJICs may also in some cases promote tumor progression. This dual role of Cx channels in tumor outcome may be due, at least partially, to the fact that GJs not only interconnect cells from the same type, such as cancer cells, but also promote the intercellular communication of tumor cells with different types of cells from their microenvironment, and such diverse intercellular interactions have distinctive impact on tumor development. For example, whereas GJ-mediated interactions among tumor cells and microglia have been implicated in promotion of tumor growth, tumor cells delivery to dendritic cells of antigenic peptides through GJs have been associated with enhanced immune-mediated tumor elimination. In this review, we provide an updated overview on the role of GJICs in tumor immunity, focusing on the pro-tumor and antitumor effect of GJs occurring among tumor and immune cells. Accumulated data suggest that GJICs may act as tumor suppressors or enhancers depending on whether tumor cells interact predominantly with antitumor immune cells or with stromal cells. The complex modulation of immune-tumor cell GJICs should be taken into consideration in order to potentiate current cancer immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Alejandra Gleisner
- Disciplinary Program of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Faculty of Medicine, Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Mariela Navarrete
- Disciplinary Program of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Faculty of Medicine, Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Francisca Hofmann
- Disciplinary Program of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Faculty of Medicine, Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Flavio Salazar-Onfray
- Disciplinary Program of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Faculty of Medicine, Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Andrés Tittarelli
- Disciplinary Program of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Faculty of Medicine, Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Willebrords J, Crespo Yanguas S, Maes M, Decrock E, Wang N, Leybaert L, Kwak BR, Green CR, Cogliati B, Vinken M. Connexins and their channels in inflammation. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2016; 51:413-439. [PMID: 27387655 PMCID: PMC5584657 DOI: 10.1080/10409238.2016.1204980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Inflammation may be caused by a variety of factors and is a hallmark of a plethora of acute and chronic diseases. The purpose of inflammation is to eliminate the initial cell injury trigger, to clear out dead cells from damaged tissue and to initiate tissue regeneration. Despite the wealth of knowledge regarding the involvement of cellular communication in inflammation, studies on the role of connexin-based channels in this process have only begun to emerge in the last few years. In this paper, a state-of-the-art overview of the effects of inflammation on connexin signaling is provided. Vice versa, the involvement of connexins and their channels in inflammation will be discussed by relying on studies that use a variety of experimental tools, such as genetically modified animals, small interfering RNA and connexin-based channel blockers. A better understanding of the importance of connexin signaling in inflammation may open up towards clinical perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joost Willebrords
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and
Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels,
Belgium; Joost Willebrords: + Tel: 32 2 477 45 87, Michaël Maes: Tel: +32 2
477 45 87, Sara Crespo Yanguas: Tel: +32 2 477 45 87
| | - Sara Crespo Yanguas
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and
Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels,
Belgium; Joost Willebrords: + Tel: 32 2 477 45 87, Michaël Maes: Tel: +32 2
477 45 87, Sara Crespo Yanguas: Tel: +32 2 477 45 87
| | - Michaël Maes
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and
Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels,
Belgium; Joost Willebrords: + Tel: 32 2 477 45 87, Michaël Maes: Tel: +32 2
477 45 87, Sara Crespo Yanguas: Tel: +32 2 477 45 87
| | - Elke Decrock
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent
University, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Elke Decrock: Tel: +32 9 332 39
73, Nan Wang: Tel: +32 9 332 39 38, Luc Leybaert: Tel: +32 9 332 33 66
| | - Nan Wang
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent
University, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Elke Decrock: Tel: +32 9 332 39
73, Nan Wang: Tel: +32 9 332 39 38, Luc Leybaert: Tel: +32 9 332 33 66
| | - Luc Leybaert
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent
University, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Elke Decrock: Tel: +32 9 332 39
73, Nan Wang: Tel: +32 9 332 39 38, Luc Leybaert: Tel: +32 9 332 33 66
| | - Brenda R. Kwak
- Department of Pathology and Immunology and Division of Cardiology,
University of Geneva, Rue Michel-Servet 1, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland; Brenda R.
Kwak: Tel: +41 22 379 57 37
| | - Colin R. Green
- Department of Ophthalmology and New Zealand National Eye Centre,
University of Auckland, New Zealand; Colin R. Green: Tel: +64 9 923 61 35
| | - Bruno Cogliati
- Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal
Science, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87,
05508-270 São Paulo, Brazil; Bruno Cogliati: Tel: +55 11 30 91 12 00
| | - Mathieu Vinken
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and
Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels,
Belgium; Joost Willebrords: + Tel: 32 2 477 45 87, Michaël Maes: Tel: +32 2
477 45 87, Sara Crespo Yanguas: Tel: +32 2 477 45 87
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Barashkov NA, Pshennikova VG, Posukh OL, Teryutin FM, Solovyev AV, Klarov LA, Romanov GP, Gotovtsev NN, Kozhevnikov AA, Kirillina EV, Sidorova OG, Vasilyevа LM, Fedotova EE, Morozov IV, Bondar AA, Solovyevа NA, Kononova SK, Rafailov AM, Sazonov NN, Alekseev AN, Tomsky MI, Dzhemileva LU, Khusnutdinova EK, Fedorova SA. Spectrum and Frequency of the GJB2 Gene Pathogenic Variants in a Large Cohort of Patients with Hearing Impairment Living in a Subarctic Region of Russia (the Sakha Republic). PLoS One 2016; 11:e0156300. [PMID: 27224056 PMCID: PMC4880331 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0156300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2016] [Accepted: 05/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic variants in the GJB2 gene, encoding connexin 26, are known to be a major cause of hearing impairment (HI). More than 300 allelic variants have been identified in the GJB2 gene. Spectrum and allelic frequencies of the GJB2 gene vary significantly among different ethnic groups worldwide. Until now, the spectrum and frequency of the pathogenic variants in exon 1, exon 2 and the flanking intronic regions of the GJB2 gene have not been described thoroughly in the Sakha Republic (Yakutia), which is located in a subarctic region in Russia. The complete sequencing of the non-coding and coding regions of the GJB2 gene was performed in 393 patients with HI (Yakuts—296, Russians—51, mixed and other ethnicities—46) and in 187 normal hearing individuals of Yakut (n = 107) and Russian (n = 80) populations. In the total sample (n = 580), we revealed 12 allelic variants of the GJB2 gene, 8 of which were recessive pathogenic variants. Ten genotypes with biallelic recessive pathogenic variants in the GJB2 gene (in a homozygous or a compound heterozygous state) were found in 192 out of 393 patients (48.85%). We found that the most frequent GJB2 pathogenic variant in the Yakut patients was c.-23+1G>A (51.82%) and that the second most frequent was c.109G>A (2.37%), followed by c.35delG (1.64%). Pathogenic variants с.35delG (22.34%), c.-23+1G>A (5.31%), and c.313_326del14 (2.12%) were found to be the most frequent among the Russian patients. The carrier frequencies of the c.-23+1G>A and с.109G>A pathogenic variants in the Yakut control group were 10.20% and 2.80%, respectively. The carrier frequencies of с.35delG and c.101T>C were identical (2.5%) in the Russian control group. We found that the contribution of the GJB2 gene pathogenic variants in HI in the population of the Sakha Republic (48.85%) was the highest among all of the previously studied regions of Asia. We suggest that extensive accumulation of the c.-23+1G>A pathogenic variant in the indigenous Yakut population (92.20% of all mutant chromosomes in patients) and an extremely high (10.20%) carrier frequency in the control group may indicate a possible selective advantage for the c.-23+1G>A carriers living in subarctic climate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolay A. Barashkov
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution “Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems,” Yakutsk, Russian Federation
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Natural Sciences, M.K. Ammosov North-Eastern Federal University, Yakutsk, Russian Federation
- * E-mail:
| | - Vera G. Pshennikova
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution “Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems,” Yakutsk, Russian Federation
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Natural Sciences, M.K. Ammosov North-Eastern Federal University, Yakutsk, Russian Federation
| | - Olga L. Posukh
- Laboratory of Human Molecular Genetics, Federal Research Center, Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation
- Novosibirsk State University, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation
| | - Fedor M. Teryutin
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution “Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems,” Yakutsk, Russian Federation
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Natural Sciences, M.K. Ammosov North-Eastern Federal University, Yakutsk, Russian Federation
| | - Aisen V. Solovyev
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution “Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems,” Yakutsk, Russian Federation
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Natural Sciences, M.K. Ammosov North-Eastern Federal University, Yakutsk, Russian Federation
| | - Leonid A. Klarov
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution “Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems,” Yakutsk, Russian Federation
- Department of Radiology, Republican Hospital # 2 –Center of Emergency Medicine, Ministry of Public Health of the Sakha Republic, Yakutsk, Russian Federation
| | - Georgii P. Romanov
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution “Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems,” Yakutsk, Russian Federation
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Natural Sciences, M.K. Ammosov North-Eastern Federal University, Yakutsk, Russian Federation
| | - Nyurgun N. Gotovtsev
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution “Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems,” Yakutsk, Russian Federation
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Natural Sciences, M.K. Ammosov North-Eastern Federal University, Yakutsk, Russian Federation
| | - Andrey A. Kozhevnikov
- Republican Centre of Professional Pathology, Republican Hospital # 2 –Center of Emergency Medicine, Ministry of Public Health of the Sakha Republic, Yakutsk, Russian Federation
| | - Elena V. Kirillina
- Institute of Foreign Philology and Regional Studies, M.K. Ammosov North-Eastern Federal University, Yakutsk, Russian Federation
| | - Oksana G. Sidorova
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution “Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems,” Yakutsk, Russian Federation
| | - Lena M. Vasilyevа
- Audiology-Logopaedic Centre, Republican Hospital #1– National Medical Centre, Ministry of Public Health of the Sakha Republic, Yakutsk, Russian Federation
| | - Elvira E. Fedotova
- Audiology-Logopaedic Centre, Republican Hospital #1– National Medical Centre, Ministry of Public Health of the Sakha Republic, Yakutsk, Russian Federation
| | - Igor V. Morozov
- Novosibirsk State University, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation
- SB RAS Genomics Core Facility, Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation
| | - Alexander A. Bondar
- SB RAS Genomics Core Facility, Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation
| | - Natalya A. Solovyevа
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution “Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems,” Yakutsk, Russian Federation
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Natural Sciences, M.K. Ammosov North-Eastern Federal University, Yakutsk, Russian Federation
| | - Sardana K. Kononova
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution “Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems,” Yakutsk, Russian Federation
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Natural Sciences, M.K. Ammosov North-Eastern Federal University, Yakutsk, Russian Federation
| | - Adyum M. Rafailov
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Natural Sciences, M.K. Ammosov North-Eastern Federal University, Yakutsk, Russian Federation
| | - Nikolay N. Sazonov
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Institute of Natural Sciences, M.K. Ammosov North-Eastern Federal University, Yakutsk, Russian Federation
| | - Anatoliy N. Alekseev
- Institute of Humanitarian Research and Indigenous Peoples of the North, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Yakutsk, Russian Federation
| | - Mikhail I. Tomsky
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution “Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems,” Yakutsk, Russian Federation
| | - Lilya U. Dzhemileva
- Laboratory of Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Biochemistry and Genetics, Ufa Scientific Centre, Russian Academy of Sciences, Ufa, Russian Federation
- Department of Immunology and Human Reproductive Health, Bashkir State Medical University, Ufa, Russian Federation
| | - Elza K. Khusnutdinova
- Laboratory of Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Biochemistry and Genetics, Ufa Scientific Centre, Russian Academy of Sciences, Ufa, Russian Federation
- Department of Genetics and Fundamental Medicine, Bashkir State University, Ufa, Russian Federation
| | - Sardana A. Fedorova
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution “Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems,” Yakutsk, Russian Federation
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Natural Sciences, M.K. Ammosov North-Eastern Federal University, Yakutsk, Russian Federation
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Bonnet M, Tran Van Nhieu G. How Shigella Utilizes Ca(2+) Jagged Edge Signals during Invasion of Epithelial Cells. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2016; 6:16. [PMID: 26904514 PMCID: PMC4748038 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2016.00016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2015] [Accepted: 01/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Shigella, the causative agent of bacillary dysentery invades intestinal epithelial cells using a type III secretion system (T3SS). Through the injection of type III effectors, Shigella manipulates the actin cytoskeleton to induce its internalization in epithelial cells. At early invasion stages, Shigella induces atypical Ca(2+) responses confined at entry sites allowing local cytoskeletal remodeling for bacteria engulfment. Global Ca(2+) increase in the cell triggers the opening of connexin hemichannels at the plasma membrane that releases ATP in the extracellular milieu, favoring Shigella invasion and spreading through purinergic receptor signaling. During intracellular replication, Shigella regulates inflammatory and death pathways to disseminate within the epithelium. At later stages of infection, Shigella downregulates hemichannel opening and the release of extracellular ATP to dampen inflammatory signals. To avoid premature cell death, Shigella activates cell survival by upregulating the PI3K/Akt pathway and downregulating the levels of p53. Furthermore, Shigella interferes with pro-apoptotic caspases, and orients infected cells toward a slow necrotic cell death linked to mitochondrial Ca(2+) overload. In this review, we will focus on the role of Ca(2+) responses and their regulation by Shigella during the different stages of bacterial infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariette Bonnet
- Equipe Communication Intercellulaire et Infections Microbiennes, Centre de Recherche Interdisciplinaire en Biologie, Collège de FranceParis, France; Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1050Paris, France; Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR7241Paris, France; MEMOLIFE Laboratory of Excellence and Paris Science LettreParis, France
| | - Guy Tran Van Nhieu
- Equipe Communication Intercellulaire et Infections Microbiennes, Centre de Recherche Interdisciplinaire en Biologie, Collège de FranceParis, France; Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1050Paris, France; Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR7241Paris, France; MEMOLIFE Laboratory of Excellence and Paris Science LettreParis, France
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11
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Sala G, Badalamenti S, Ponticelli C. The Renal Connexome and Possible Roles of Connexins in Kidney Diseases. Am J Kidney Dis 2015; 67:677-87. [PMID: 26613807 DOI: 10.1053/j.ajkd.2015.09.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2015] [Accepted: 09/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Connexins are membrane-spanning proteins that allow for the formation of cell-to-cell channels and cell-to-extracellular space hemichannels. Many connexin subtypes are expressed in kidney cells. Some mutations in connexin genes have been linked to various human pathologies, including cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, lung, and skin diseases, but the exact role of connexins in kidney disease remains unclear. Some hypotheses about a connection between genetic mutations, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and the unfolded protein response (UPR) in kidney pathology have been explored. The potential relationship of kidney disease to abnormal production of connexin proteins, mutations in their genes together with ER stress, or the UPR is still a matter of debate. In this scenario, it is tantalizing to speculate about a possible role of connexins in the setting of kidney pathologies that are thought to be caused by a deregulated podocyte protein expression, the so-called podocytopathies. In this article, we give examples of the roles of connexins in kidney (patho)physiology and propose avenues for further research concerning connexins, ER stress, and UPR in podocytopathies that may ultimately help refine drug treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Sala
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Humanitas Clinical Research Center, Rozzano (Milano), Italy.
| | - Salvatore Badalamenti
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Humanitas Clinical Research Center, Rozzano (Milano), Italy
| | - Claudio Ponticelli
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Humanitas Clinical Research Center, Rozzano (Milano), Italy
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12
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Maes M, Crespo Yanguas S, Willebrords J, Cogliati B, Vinken M. Connexin and pannexin signaling in gastrointestinal and liver disease. Transl Res 2015; 166:332-43. [PMID: 26051630 PMCID: PMC4570182 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2015.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2015] [Revised: 04/29/2015] [Accepted: 05/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Gap junctions, which mediate intercellular communication, are key players in digestive homeostasis. They are also frequently involved in gastrointestinal and liver pathology. This equally holds true for connexin (Cx) hemichannels, the structural precursors of gap junctions, and pannexin (Panx) channels, Cx-like proteins assembled in a hemichannel configuration. Both Cx hemichannels and Panx channels facilitate extracellular communication and drive a number of deteriorative processes, such as cell death and inflammation. Cxs, Panxs, and their channels underlie a wide spectrum of gastrointestinal and liver diseases, including gastritis and peptic ulcer disease, inflammatory intestinal conditions, acute liver failure, cholestasis, hepatitis and steatosis, liver fibrosis and cirrhosis, infectious gastrointestinal pathologies, and gastrointestinal and liver cancer. This could open promising perspectives for the characterization of new targets and biomarkers for therapeutic and diagnostic clinical purposes in the area of gastroenterology and hepatology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaël Maes
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sara Crespo Yanguas
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Joost Willebrords
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bruno Cogliati
- Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mathieu Vinken
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
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13
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Maes M, Cogliati B, Crespo Yanguas S, Willebrords J, Vinken M. Roles of connexins and pannexins in digestive homeostasis. Cell Mol Life Sci 2015; 72:2809-21. [PMID: 26084872 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-015-1961-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2015] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Connexin proteins are abundantly present in the digestive system. They primarily form gap junctions, which control the intercellular exchange of critical homeostasis regulators. By doing so, gap junctions drive a plethora of gastrointestinal and hepatic functional features, including gastric and gut motility, gastric acid secretion, intestinal innate immune defense, xenobiotic biotransformation, glycogenolysis, bile secretion, ammonia detoxification and plasma protein synthesis. In the last decade, it has become clear that connexin hemichannels, which are the structural precursors of gap junctions, also provide a pathway for cellular communication, namely between the cytosol and the extracellular environment. Although merely pathological functions have been described, some physiological roles have been attributed to connexin hemichannels, in particular in the modulation of colonic motility. This equally holds true for cellular channels composed of pannexins, connexin-like proteins recently identified in the intestine and the liver, which have become acknowledged key players in inflammatory processes and that have been proposed to control colonic motility, secretion and blood flow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaël Maes
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
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14
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Connexins and skin disease: insights into the role of beta connexins in skin homeostasis. Cell Tissue Res 2015; 360:645-58. [PMID: 25616557 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-014-2094-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2014] [Accepted: 12/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Cell-to-cell communication triggered by connexin channels plays a central role in maintaining epidermal homeostasis. Here, we discuss the role of the beta connexin subgroup, where site-specific mutations in at least 4 of these proteins lead to distinctive non-inflammatory and inflammatory hyperproliferative epidermal disorders. Recent advances in the molecular pathways evoked and correlation with clinical outcome are discussed. The latest data provide increasing evidence that connexins in the epidermis are sensors to environmental stress and that targeting aberrant hemichannel activity holds significant therapeutic potential for inflammatory skin disorders.
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15
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Abstract
Channels are integral membrane proteins that form a pore, allowing the passive movement of ions or molecules across a membrane (along a gradient), either between compartments within a cell, between intracellular and extracellular environments or between adjacent cells. The ability of cells to communicate with one another and with their environment is a crucial part of the normal physiology of a tissue that allows it to carry out its function. Cell communication is particularly important during keratinocyte differentiation and formation of the skin barrier. Keratinocytes in the skin epidermis undergo a programme of apoptosis-driven terminal differentiation, whereby proliferating keratinocytes in the basal (deepest) layer of the epidermis stop proliferating, exit the basal layer and move up through the spinous and granular layers of the epidermis to form the stratum corneum, the external barrier. Genes encoding different families of channel proteins have been found to harbour mutations linked to a variety of rare inherited monogenic skin diseases. In this Commentary, we discuss how human genetic findings in aquaporin (AQP) and transient receptor potential (TRP) channels reveal different mechanisms by which these channel proteins function to ensure the proper formation and maintenance of the skin barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana C Blaydon
- Centre for Cutaneous Research, Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, Whitechapel, London, E1 2AT, UK
| | - David P Kelsell
- Centre for Cutaneous Research, Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, Whitechapel, London, E1 2AT, UK
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16
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Immunohistological characterization of intercellular junction proteins in rhesus macaque intestine. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 66:437-44. [PMID: 25153024 DOI: 10.1016/j.etp.2014.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2014] [Revised: 07/16/2014] [Accepted: 07/28/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Epithelial junctions play an important role in regulating paracellular permeability and intercellular adhesion. It has been reported that changes in the density of epithelial junctions and/or distribution pattern can contribute to various gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. In this study, we investigated the distribution of the tight junction (Claudins. 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 10, Zonula Occludens (ZO-1), Occludin), adherens junction (E-cadherin), desmosome (Desmoglein 2, Desmocollin 2) and gap junction (Connexin 43) proteins in the jejunum, ileum and colonic epithelium of healthy rhesus macaques (RM) using immunofluorescence labeling. While proteins in these respective junctions were expressed throughout the jejunum, ileum and colon of RM, we observed differential labeling in epithelial cells from these sites. Claudins 1, 3, 4, 7, E-cadherin and Desmoglein 2 were distributed in the respective intercellular junctions with additional labeling in the lateral membrane of epithelial cells in both small and large intestine. However, claudin 5, claudin 10, ZO-1 and occludin showed uniform distribution in the intercellular junctions of crypt and surface epithelial cells of the intestine. Desmocollin 2 localized predominantly in the upper two thirds along the lateral membrane while desmoglein 2 was distributed along the entire lateral membrane of intestinal epithelial cells. In contrast, connexin 43 exhibited punctate lateral labeling in crypt epithelial cells of the small and large intestine. Our results show diverse localization of epithelial intercellular junction proteins along the intestinal tract of RM. These findings may correlate with differences in paracellular permeability and adhesion along the intestinal tract and could correlate with pathologic disease in these regions of the intestine.
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17
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Connexin 26 variant carriers have a better gastrointestinal health: is this the heterozygote advantage? Eur J Hum Genet 2014. [DOI: 10.1038/ejhg.2014.151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
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18
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Bou Saab J, Losa D, Chanson M, Ruez R. Connexins in respiratory and gastrointestinal mucosal immunity. FEBS Lett 2014; 588:1288-96. [PMID: 24631537 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2014.02.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2014] [Revised: 02/27/2014] [Accepted: 02/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The mucosal lining forms the physical and chemical barrier that protects against pathogens and hostile particles and harbors its own population of bacteria, fungi and archea, known as the microbiota. The immune system controls tolerance of this population of microorganisms that have proven to be beneficial for its host. Keeping its physical integrity and a correct balance with the microbiota, the mucosa preserves its homeostasis and its protective function and maintains host's health. However, in some conditions, pathogens may succeed in breaching mucosal homeostasis and successfully infecting the host. In this review we will discuss the role the mucosa plays in the defense against bacterial pathogens by considering the gap junction protein connexins. We will detail their implication in mucosal homeostasis and upon infection with bacteria in the respiratory and the gastrointestinal tracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Bou Saab
- Geneva University Hospitals and University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Davide Losa
- Geneva University Hospitals and University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Marc Chanson
- Geneva University Hospitals and University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Richard Ruez
- Geneva University Hospitals and University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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19
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Martin PE, Easton JA, Hodgins MB, Wright CS. Connexins: sensors of epidermal integrity that are therapeutic targets. FEBS Lett 2014; 588:1304-14. [PMID: 24607543 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2014.02.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2014] [Revised: 02/25/2014] [Accepted: 02/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Gap junction proteins (connexins) are differentially expressed throughout the multiple layers of the epidermis. A variety of skin conditions arise with aberrant connexin expression or function and suggest that maintaining the epidermal gap junction network has many important roles in preserving epidermal integrity and homeostasis. Mutations in a number of connexins lead to epidermal dysplasias giving rise to a range of dermatological disorders of differing severity. 'Gain of function' mutations reveal connexin-mediated roles in calcium signalling within the epidermis. Connexins are involved in epidermal innate immunity, inflammation control and in wound repair. The therapeutic potential of targeting connexins to improve wound healing responses is now clear. This review discusses the role of connexins in epidermal integrity, and examines the emerging evidence that connexins act as epidermal sensors to a variety of mechanical, temperature, pathogen-induced and chemical stimuli. Connexins thus act as an integral component of the skin's protective barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia E Martin
- Department of Life Sciences and Institute for Applied Health Research, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow G4 0BA, UK.
| | - Jennifer A Easton
- Department of Life Sciences and Institute for Applied Health Research, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow G4 0BA, UK; Department of Dermatology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Malcolm B Hodgins
- Department of Life Sciences and Institute for Applied Health Research, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow G4 0BA, UK
| | - Catherine S Wright
- Department of Life Sciences and Institute for Applied Health Research, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow G4 0BA, UK
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20
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Role of gap junctions and hemichannels in parasitic infections. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2013; 2013:589130. [PMID: 24236292 PMCID: PMC3819887 DOI: 10.1155/2013/589130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2013] [Revised: 08/07/2013] [Accepted: 08/26/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In vertebrates, connexins (Cxs) and pannexins (Panxs) are proteins that form gap junction channels and/or hemichannels located at cell-cell interfaces and cell surface, respectively. Similar channel types are formed by innexins in invertebrate cells. These channels serve as pathways for cellular communication that coordinate diverse physiologic processes. However, it is known that many acquired and inherited diseases deregulate Cx and/or Panx channels, condition that frequently worsens the pathological state of vertebrates. Recent evidences suggest that Cx and/or Panx hemichannels play a relevant role in bacterial and viral infections. Nonetheless, little is known about the role of Cx- and Panx-based channels in parasitic infections of vertebrates. In this review, available data on changes in Cx and gap junction channel changes induced by parasitic infections are summarized. Additionally, we describe recent findings that suggest possible roles of hemichannels in parasitic infections. Finally, the possibility of new therapeutic designs based on hemichannel blokers is presented.
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