Open AccessConnexins and angiogenesis: Functional aspects, pathogenesis, and emerging therapies (Review)
Author(s) -
Zizi Zhou,
Wenxiang Chai,
Yi Liu,
Meng Zhang,
Xiaoming Zhang
Publication year - 2022
Publication title -
international journal of molecular medicine
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.048
H-Index - 90
eISSN - 1791-244X
pISSN - 1107-3756
DOI - 10.3892/ijmm.2022.5166
Subject(s) - angiogenesis , biology , metastasis , cancer research , wound healing , cancer , neovascularization , neuroscience , immunology , genetics
Connexins (Cxs) play key roles in cellular communication. By facilitating metabolite exchange or interfering with distinct signaling pathways, Cxs affect cell homeostasis, proliferation, and differentiation. Variations in the activity and expression of Cxs have been linked to numerous clinical conditions including carcinomas, cardiac disorders, and wound healing. Recent discoveries on the association between Cxs and angiogenesis have sparked interest in Cx‑mediated angiogenesis due to its essential functions in tissue formation, wound repair, tumor growth, and metastasis. It is now widely recognized that understanding the association between Cxs and angiogenesis may aid in the development of new targeted therapies for angiogenic diseases. The aim of the present review was to provide a comprehensive overview of Cxs and Cx‑mediated angiogenesis, with a focus on therapeutic implications.