Gap junctions in the ovary: expression, localization and function

Mol Cell Endocrinol. 2008 Jan 30;282(1-2):18-25. doi: 10.1016/j.mce.2007.11.001. Epub 2007 Nov 19.

Abstract

Gap junctions that allow the direct communication between cytoplasmic compartments of neighboring cells are present in a variety of tissues and organs and play pivotal roles in a wide range of physiological processes. In the ovary, gap junctions consist mainly of connexin (Cx) 43 and Cx37, and their indispensable role in regulating folliculogenesis and oogenesis is well established. The ovarian Cx43 is regulated by gonadotropins at the transcriptional, translational and post-translational levels whereas the regulation of the ovarian Cx37 is yet unknown. In addition to their involvement in normal ovarian functions, gap junction proteins, particularly Cx43, seem to act as cancer suppressors. A summary of our present knowledge regarding gap junctional communication (GJC) and the ovarian gap junction proteins in normally developing ovaries and under pathological conditions is presented in this review.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cattle
  • Cell Communication
  • Connexin 43 / metabolism
  • Connexins / metabolism
  • Female
  • Gap Junction alpha-4 Protein
  • Gap Junctions / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Mice
  • Ovarian Neoplasms / metabolism
  • Ovarian Neoplasms / pathology
  • Ovary / cytology
  • Ovary / metabolism*
  • Rats
  • Sheep
  • Swine

Substances

  • Connexin 43
  • Connexins