Abstract

Gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) is a mechanism of direct cell-to-cell signalling and is mediated by gap junctions (GJs), consisting of transmembrane proteins called connexins (Cxs). GJIC plays a critical role in tissue development and differentiation and is important in the maintenance of tissue homeostasis through the exchange of ions, signalling molecules, nucleotides, and other small molecules (less than 1kDa) between adjacent cells. Because gap junctions are sites of the propagation or conduction of action potentials between adjacent cells, it is possible that they participate in the generation of rhythmic peristaltic movements by contributing to synchronous contraction in the muscle layer. Many physiological roles have been proposed for gap junctions, such as the maintenance of tissue homeostasis, regulation of tissue development, electrical and metabolic coupling, as well as the regulation of cellular growth, differentiation and apoptosis. Altered expressions of connexins have been observed in various pathological processes of the digestive tract, such as Hirschsprung’s disease, esophageal cancer, gastric cancer, and colorectal cancer.Using a variety of techniques such as transmission electron microscopy, Lucifer Yellow transfer and immunohistochemistry, gap junctions in the digestive tracts of mammalian species have been identified. This work is a review of recent studies on the role of GJIC in the physiology and pathology of the digestive tract.

Full text