Gap-junction-mediated bioelectric signaling required for slow muscle development and function in zebrafish.

ABSTRACT: Bioelectric 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, creating challenges in identifying 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, that mediates bioelectric signali

SUBMITTER: Lukowicz-Bedford RM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11265983 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature