Connexin 43 - Zonula occludens-1 interaction (null)

The Connexin 43 - Zonula occludens-1 interaction constitutes a critical regulatory interface for gap junction formation, size, and cell-cell communication. Connexin 43 (Cx43) forms intercellular channels that assemble into gap junctions, crucial for ionic and molecular exchange in tissues. Zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), a scaffold tight junction protein, binds specifically to the carboxy terminus of Cx43 via a PDZ domain interaction, mostly at the periphery of gap junction plaques. This interaction controls the recruitment and turnover of connexons (hemichannels) into gap junctions; when ZO-1 binding to Cx43 is inhibited, gap junctions enlarge, increasing intercellular coupling but altering cellular permeability and organization. Regulation of this interface is important in excitable tissues such as the heart and brain, influencing disease states when dysregulated[1][2][3][4].

Other names

Connexin43-ZO-1 interactionCx43-ZO-1 interfaceCx43-TJP1 interaction (TJP1 is the gene for ZO-1)

Disruption of Cx43-ZO-1 binding increases gap junction plaque size and enhances intercellular communication, while decreasing hemichannel activity in contacting cells