Repression of Connexin26 hemichannel activity protects the barrier function of respiratory airway epithelial cells against LPS-induced alteration.

ABSTRACT: In respiratory airway epithelial cells, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatment induced an enhancement of connexin 26 (Cx26) hemichannel activity shown by dye uptake experiments after siRNA-mediated knock-down of Cx26. This effect was already observed at infection relevant concentrations (≤ 10 ng/mL LPS) and involved tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α)- and Ca²⁺-dependent signaling. High concentrations (1 µg/mL LPS) reduced the transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) of Calu-3 cells by 35% within an application time of 3 h followed by a recovery. Parallel to barrier alteration, a reduced tight junction organization rate (TiJOR) of claudin-4 (CLDN4) by 75% was observed within an application time of 3 h. After TEER recovery, CLDN4 TiJOR stayed reduced. Low concentrations (10 ng/mL

SUBMITTER: Lehrich T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12082868 | biostudies-literature | 2025 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature