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Current Topics in Ion Channels

Connexin and pannexin hemichannels of neurons and astrocytes

Roger J. Thompson and Brian MacVicar

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Hemichannels are large pore ion channels that in the traditional view are formed when half a gap connexin junction opens to the extracellular space. It is now evident that other ion channel families, including the newly discovered pannexin family can form channels with all the nascent properties of hemichannels. This suggests that hemichannels should now be defined to include members of non-connexin families. Several connexin, and two pannexins are expressed in neurons and astrocytes where they may function in release of ATP and glutamate. Additionally, pannexin-1 appears to play a role in neuronal death. Hemichannels form a novel and unique class of ion channels that likely have diverse physiological and pathophysiological roles in the nervous system.

Authors

Roger J. Thompson

University of British Columbia

Brian MacVicar

University of British Columbia

Purchase article for $19

Subscribe to this journal for $79/year