Gap junction and function of brain.
- Author:
Han-xiao YU
1
;
Yan-qin YU
Author Information
1. Department of Physiology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- MeSH:
Brain;
metabolism;
physiology;
Connexins;
metabolism;
Gap Junctions;
metabolism;
physiology;
Humans;
Neuroglia;
metabolism;
physiology;
Neurons;
metabolism;
physiology
- From:
Journal of Zhejiang University. Medical sciences
2012;41(6):696-702
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
Gap junction is the aggregate of some intercellular channels, which allows ions and small molecules to transport or transfer between cells. There are about 20 proposed members of the connexin family found in mammalian tissues now, and more than 10 reported are expressed in the nervous system. The astrocytes and oligodendrocytes express some specific connexins. In the present article, we review the recent literatures to illustrate the importance of gap junction for the intercellular communication between glial cells, astrocytes and neurons, and neuronal cells, which is crucial for brain functions.
