CONNEXIN EXPRESSION SYSTEMS - TO WHAT EXTENT DO THEY REFLECT THE SITUATION IN THE ANIMAL

Intercellular communication is mediated by specialized cell-cell conta ct areas known as gap junctions. Connexins ape the constitutive protei ns of gap junction intercellular channels. Various cell expression sys tems are used to express connexins and, in turn, these expression syst ems can then be tested for their ability to form functional cell-cell channels. In this review, expression of murine endogenous connexins in primary cells and established cell lines is compared with results obt ained by expression of exogenous connexins in Xenopus oocytes and cult ured mammalian cells. In addition, first reports on characterization o f connexin-deficient mice are discussed.