Gap Junctions and the Connexin Protein Family in Health and Disease

Dear Colleagues,

Intercellular communication plays an important role in cell physiology. Cell-to-cell interaction based on the direct exchange of small molecules relies on the existence of a complex of gap junctions, the building blocks of which are a group of transmembrane proteins called connexins. In addition to their role in direct intercellular exchange, connexins are also involved in paracrine communication by forming membrane pores - hemichannels. Beside their role in intercellular communication, some members of the connexin family are also thought to have functions unrelated to channel formation.

Because of their important role in cell physiology, mutations in the genes encoding connexin proteins lead to various human developmental disorders and diseases. In addition, alterations in the formation and function of gap junctions and connexins have been shown to be an important factor in the pathogenesis of many diseases.

Despite the growing number of studies, there are still many gaps in our knowledge in this area. Therefore, we invite researchers to submit review articles or original papers that contribute to our understanding of the role of connexins in physiology and various pathological processes.

Prof. Dr. Natalija Filipović
Guest Editor

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