Gap Junction Structure and Chemical Regulation

Book excerpt: Gap Junction Structure and Chemical Regulation: Direct Calmodulin Role in Cell-to-Cell Channel Gating describes and discusses the findings of major studies conducted during the past century on the structure and chemical regulation of direct cell-to-cell communication via gap junction channels. Chapters bring together important findings on direct cell communication, from its history, to its structure and regulation. These channels are essential for normal organ function, and mutations in their protein (connexin) cause various diseases. The book is useful for established investigators who need a review on the field and young investigators who need a thorough resource for study and comprehension. - Contains comprehensive, historical coverage on direct cell-to-cell communication - Provides detailed coverage of gap junction channel structure and regulation, with extensive coverage of the direct role of calmodulin in channel gating - Delivers a thorough description of models proposed for the chemical gating of gap junction channels