Open AccessConnexins, cell motility, and the cytoskeleton
Author(s) -
Olk Stephan,
Zoidl Georg,
Dermietzel Rolf
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
cell motility and the cytoskeleton
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1097-0169
pISSN - 0886-1544
DOI - 10.1002/cm.20404
Subject(s) - biology , microbiology and biotechnology , cytoskeleton , scaffold protein , cell polarity , transmembrane protein , motility , cell , signal transduction , genetics , receptor
Connexins (Cx) comprise a family of transmembrane proteins, which form intercellular channels between plasma membranes of two adjoining cells, commonly known as gap junctions. Recent reports revealed that Cx proteins interact with diverse cellular components to form a multiprotein complex, which has been termed “Nexus”. Potential interaction partners include proteins such as cytoskeletal proteins, scaffolding proteins, protein kinases and phosphatases. These interactions allow correct subcellular localization of Cxs and functional regulation of gap junction‐mediated intercellular communication. Evidence is accruing that Cxs might have channel‐independent functions, which potentially include regulation of cell migration, cell polarization and growth control. In the current review, we summarize recent knowledge on Cx interactions with cytoskeletal proteins and highlight some aspects of their role in cellular motility. Cell Motil. Cytoskeleton 66: 1000–1016, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.