Regulation of connexin signaling by the epigenetic machinery

Author(s)

Vinken, Mathieu

• Document type: Review article
• Source: BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS; v. 1859, n. 2, p. 262-268, FEB 2016.
• Web of Science Citations: 12

Abstract

Connexins and their channels are involved in the control of all aspects of the cellular life cycle, ranging from cell growth to cell death, by mediating extracellular, intercellular and intracellular communication. These multifaceted aspects of connexin-related cellular signaling obviously require strict regulation. While connexin channel activity is mainly directed by posttranslational modifications, connexin expression as such is managed by classical cis/trans mechanisms. Over the past few years, it has become clear that connexin production is equally dictated by epigenetic actions. This paper provides an overview of the role of major determinants of the epigenome, including DNA methylation, histone acetylation and microRNA species, in connexin expression. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 13/50420-6 - Connexin and pannexin channels as drug targets and biomarkers in acute and chronic liver disease
• Grantee: Mathieu Frederick Alexander Vinken
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - SPEC Program