Connexin 43-Mediated Gap Junction Communication Regulates Ameloblast Differentiation via ERK1/2 Phosphorylation.

ABSTRACT: Connexin 43 (Cx43) is an integral membrane protein that forms gap junction channels. These channels mediate intercellular transport and intracellular signaling to regulate organogenesis. The human disease oculodentodigital dysplasia (ODDD) is caused by mutations in Cx43 and is characterized by skeletal, ocular, and dental abnormalities including amelogenesis imperfecta. To clarify the role of Cx43 in amelogenesis, we examined the expression and function of Cx43 in tooth development. Single-cell RNA-seq analysis and immunostaining showed that Cx43 is highly expressed in pre-secretory ameloblasts, differentiated ameloblasts, and odontoblasts. Further, we investigated the pathogenic mechanisms of ODDD by analyzing Cx43-null mice. These mice developed abnormal teeth with multiple

SUBMITTER: Yamada A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8500398 | biostudies-literature | 2021

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature