Microtubule plus-end-tracking proteins target gap junctions directly from the cell interior to adherens junctions.

ABSTRACT: Gap junctions are intercellular channels that connect the cytoplasms of adjacent cells. For gap junctions to properly control organ formation and electrical synchronization in the heart and the brain, connexin-based hemichannels must be correctly targeted to cell-cell borders. While it is generally accepted that gap junctions form via lateral diffusion of hemichannels following microtubule-mediated delivery to the plasma membrane, we provide evidence for direct targeting of hemichannels to cell-cell junctions through a pathway that is dependent on microtubules; through the adherens-junction proteins N-cadherin and beta-catenin; through the microtubule plus-end-tracking protein (+TIP) EB1; and through its interacting protein p150(Glued). Based on live cell microscopy that includes fluoresce

SUBMITTER: Shaw RM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC1955433 | biostudies-literature | 2007 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature