Connexin 43 ubiquitination determines the fate of gap junctions: restrict to survive

Biochem Soc Trans. 2015 Jun;43(3):471-5. doi: 10.1042/BST20150036.

Abstract

Connexins (Cxs) are transmembrane proteins that form channels which allow direct intercellular communication (IC) between neighbouring cells via gap junctions. Mechanisms that modulate the amount of channels at the plasma membrane have emerged as important regulators of IC and their de-regulation has been associated with various diseases. Although Cx-mediated IC can be modulated by different mechanisms, ubiquitination has been described as one of the major post-translational modifications involved in Cx regulation and consequently IC. In this review, we focus on the role of ubiquitin and its effect on gap junction intercellular communication.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Autophagy / genetics*
  • Connexin 43 / genetics*
  • Connexin 43 / metabolism
  • Endosomes / metabolism
  • Gap Junctions / genetics*
  • Gap Junctions / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Proteolysis
  • Ubiquitin / genetics*
  • Ubiquitin / metabolism
  • Ubiquitination / genetics

Substances

  • Connexin 43
  • GJA1 protein, human
  • Ubiquitin