We've had important advances in the connexin/pannexin field, yet there is still much to do

摘要

In recent years, we have seen major advances in the field of con-nexin (Cx) and pannexin (Panx) proteins. New methods have been developed or adapted to work in this area of research and a number of Cx mutations linked to human disease have been found. Moreover, work on Cx hemichannels (Cx HCs, prior to docking and the formation of gap junction (GJ) channels) has exploded, having implications for a variety of biological processes. Studies of Panx channels have also captivated the interest of investigators and expanded the area of research on cell-cell communication via membrane channels. In addition, several rumors indicate that Panxs also form GJ channels and studies may soon be reported clarifying this gossip. This special issue is composed of original and review articles that correspond to a small sample of progress in specific subareas of the field and undoubtedly underscore the overall advances made thus far.