PANNEXIN Meaning and
Definition
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Pannexin is a protein family that plays a crucial role in intercellular communication through the formation of channels known as pannexons. These channels are responsible for the exchange of molecules and ions between neighboring cells, thereby facilitating the transmission of signals and coordination of cellular activities.
Pannexins are transmembrane proteins that span the cell membrane, with both the N- and C-termini situated within the cytoplasm. They consist of four subunits that come together to form a hexameric channel structure. Pannexin channel opening is regulated by various physiological and pathological factors, including changes in voltage, mechanical stress, neurotransmitters, and cellular injury.
The distribution of pannexins is widespread throughout different tissues and organ systems in vertebrates. They are found in the central nervous system, where they contribute to synaptic transmission and neuronal signaling. Pannexins are also present in non-neuronal tissues, such as immune cells, where they participate in inflammatory responses and immune signaling.
Dysregulation or malfunctioning of pannexin channels has been associated with various diseases, including neuropathic pain, epilepsy, neurodegenerative disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, pannexins have emerged as potential therapeutic targets for the development of drugs aimed at modulating intercellular communication and treating these pathologies.
In summary, pannexin is a family of proteins that form channels enabling intercellular communication. They are involved in the transmission of signals and coordination of cellular activities, playing a critical role in various physiological and pathological processes throughout the body.
Common Misspellings for PANNEXIN
- oannexin
- lannexin
- -annexin
- 0annexin
- pznnexin
- psnnexin
- pwnnexin
- pqnnexin
- pabnexin
- pamnexin
- pajnexin
- pahnexin
- panbexin
- panmexin
- panjexin
- panhexin
- pannwxin
- pannsxin
- panndxin
- pannrxin
Etymology of PANNEXIN
The term pannexin is formed by combining the prefix pan- which means all or whole in Greek, and nexin, derived from the word nexus which means a bond or a connection in Latin. Therefore, pannexin can be understood to mean all connection or whole bond.
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