Gap junction mediated bioelectric coordination is required for slow muscle development, organization, and function.

ABSTRACT: Bioelectrical signaling, intercellular communication facilitated by membrane potential and electrochemical coupling, is emerging as a key regulator of animal development. Gap junction (GJ) channels can mediate bioelectric signaling by creating a fast, direct pathway between cells for the movement of ions and other small molecules. In vertebrates, GJ channels are formed by a highly conserved transmembrane protein family called the Connexins. The connexin gene family is large and complex, presenting a challenge in identifying the specific Connexins that create channels within developing and mature tissues. Using the embryonic zebrafish neuromuscular system as a model, we identify a connexin conserved across vertebrate lineages, gjd4, which encodes the Cx46.8 protein, tha

SUBMITTER: Lukowicz-Bedford RM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10769300 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature