Astroglial connexins in epileptogenesis. (January 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Yang, Ting-Ting; Qian, Feng; Liu, Lian; Peng, Xiao-Chun; Huang, Jiang-Rong; Ren, Bo-Xu; Tang, Feng-Ru
• Is Part Of: Seizure. Volume 84(2021)
• Page Start: 122
• Page End: 128
• Publication Date: 2021-01
• Subjects: Astrocyte -- Connexin -- Epileptogenesis -- Gap junction; Epilepsy -- Periodicals; Epilepsy -- Periodicals; Seizures -- Periodicals; Épilepsie -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; Electronic journals; 616.853
• DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2020.11.022
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1059-1311

Abstract

Highlights: Dysfunctional astroglial connexins are associated with epileptogenesis. Reduced gap junction coupling increases the hemichannel activity. Reducing connexin hemichannel activity may effectively control epileptogenesis. Abstract: The astroglial network connected through gap junctions assembling from connexins physiologically balances the concentrations of ions and neurotransmitters around neurons. Astrocytic dysfunction has been associated with many neurological disorders including epilepsy. Dissociated gap junctions result in the increased activity of connexin hemichannels which triggers brain pathophysiological changes. Previous studies in patients and animal models of epilepsy indicate that the reduced gap junction coupling from assembled connexin hemichannels in the astrocytes may play an important role in epileptogenesis. This abnormal cell-to-cell communication is now emerging as an important feature of brain pathologies and being considered as a novel therapeutic target for controlling epileptogenesis. In particular, candidate drugs with ability of inhibition of connexin hemichannel activity and enhancement of gap junction formation in astrocytes should be explored to prevent epileptogenesis and control epilepsy.