Membrane channels are a family of biological membrane
proteins which allow the passive movement of
ions (
ion channels),
water (
aquaporins) or other
solutes to passively pass through the membrane down their electrochemical gradient. They are studied using a range of
channelomics experimental and mathematical techniques. Insights have suggested
endocannabinoids (eCBs) as molecules that can regulate the opening of these channels during diverse conditions.
Properties
Hemichannels
A
hemichannel is a membrane channel made up of six subunits.
A hemichannel is defined as one-half of a
gap junction channel.
Hemichannels consist of
.
Pannexin
are involved in the process of purinergic signalling. They release adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which activate purinergic receptors. On the other hand, purinergic receptor activation can also lead to the opening of the channel, via a positive feedback loop.
In addition, P2Y receptors activate inositol trisphosphate, which leads to a transient increase in intracellular
calcium, and opens both connexin and pannexin channels, therefore contributing to the propagation of
across
and
Epithelium cells.
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Further reading
