Schematic diagram of a gap junction. One connexon is made from two hemiconnexons. Each hemiconnexon is made from six connexin molecules. Small solutes are able to diffuse through the central channel, providing a direct mechanism of cell–cell communication. One gap junction contains several connexons. Different connexins are found in different tissues.
Mutations in genes encoding connexins have been found to be associated with a number of conditions, including cardiovascular abnormalities, one type of deafness, and the X-linked form of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (a demyelinating neurologic disorder).
References
1. Murray RK, Granner DK. Murray R.K., Granner D.K. Chapter 40. Membranes: Structure & Function. In: Murray RK, Bender DA, Botham KM, Kennelly PJ, Rodwell VW, Weil P. Murray R.K., Bender D.A., Botham K.M., Kennelly P.J., Rodwell V.W., Weil P eds. Harper's Illustrated Biochemistry, 29e. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill; 2012. http://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?bookid=389&Sectionid=40142519. Accessed June 26, 2014.