Gap junction alpha-1 protein (Cx43) (Cx43)

Gap junction alpha-1 protein, commonly known as Connexin 43 (Cx43), is a vital transmembrane protein that forms hexameric hemichannels and intercellular gap junctions. These structures allow for the direct passage of ions, second messengers, and small metabolites between adjacent cells, playing a fundamental role in electrical and metabolic coupling [UniProt P17302]. Cx43 is the most abundant connexin in the human body, with high expression in the heart, brain, and skin, where it coordinates synchronized cardiac contraction and tissue repair [PubMed: 29104117]. The protein's activity is heavily regulated by post-translational modifications, particularly phosphorylation at its C-terminal tail, which influences channel gating, assembly, and degradation [PubMed: 28213458]. In disease states, altered Cx43 expression or phosphorylation is associated with cardiac arrhythmias, chronic non-healing wounds, and neuroinflammatory conditions [PubMed: 30311170]. Therapeutic interventions targeting Cx43 include mimetic peptides like ACT1 for wound healing and small molecules like danegaptide for cardioprotection [PubMed: 26337100]. However, systemic targeting remains challenging due to the protein's widespread physiological importance and the risk of disrupting essential electrical coupling in the heart [PubMed: 25653109].

Other names

GJA1Connexin-43GJALODDDAVSD3HLHS1

Gap junction modulation, hemichannel inhibition, and stabilization of gap junction plaques