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Gap junctions: multifaceted regulators of embryonic cortical development
- Source :
-
Trends in Neurosciences . May2008, Vol. 31 Issue 5, p243-250. 8p. - Publication Year :
- 2008
-
Abstract
- The morphological development of the cerebral cortex from a primitive neuroepithelium into a complex laminar structure underlying higher cognition must rely on a network of intercellular signaling. Gap junctions are widely expressed during embryonic development and provide a means of cell–cell contact and communication. We review the roles of gap junctions in regulating the proliferation of neural progenitors as well as the migration and differentiation of young neurons in the embryonic cerebral cortex. There is substantial evidence that although gap junctions act in the classical manner coupling neural progenitors, they also act as hemichannels mediating the spread of calcium waves across progenitor cell populations and as adhesive molecules aiding neuronal migration. Gap junctions are thus emerging as multifaceted regulators of cortical development playing diverse roles in intercellular communication. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]
- Subjects :
- *CEREBRAL cortex
*EPITHELIUM
*COGNITION
*NEURAL circuitry
*NEURONS
Subjects
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 01662236
- Volume :
- 31
- Issue :
- 5
- Database :
- Academic Search Index
- Journal :
- Trends in Neurosciences
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 31919259
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tins.2008.02.007