Gap junction protein beta-7 (GJB7)

Gap junction protein beta-7 is a connexin family ion channel also known as Connexin-25, encoded by the GJB7 gene. Connexins are integral plasma membrane proteins that oligomerize into hexameric structures called connexons, which dock with connexons from adjacent cells to form gap junction channels[1][2][4]. These channels directly connect the cytoplasms of neighboring cells, enabling the rapid diffusion of ions, metabolites (e.g., glucose), and signaling molecules (e.g., cAMP, IP3) with a molecular weight of up to ~1 kDa[2][4][5][7]. GJB7 is less studied than other connexins and is not established as a direct therapeutic target[2][3][5]. It is present in various tissues and contributes to cellular signaling and metabolic cooperation, predominantly in the context of intercellular communication and tissue homeostasis[2][3][7]. There are no current drugs or therapies known to modulate its function directly, nor is it used as a biomarker or subject to reported clinical safety issues[1][2][4][5][8].

Other names

Connexin-25CX25bA136M9.1connexin25Gap junction protein, beta 7, 25kDaCXB7_HUMANGJB7