Abstract
Theopening of connexin hemichannels (HCs) expressed at the plasma membrane of mammalian cells is regulated by a number of physiological parameters, including extracellular and intracellular Ca2+ ions. Submicromolar variations of the cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]c) are per se sufficient to trigger extracellular bursts of messenger molecules through connexin HCs, thus mediating paracrine signaling. In this chapter, we present a quantitative method to measure the openingdynamics of connexin HCs expressedin a single HeLacell upon stimulation by a canonical InsP3-mediated [Ca2+]c transient. The protocol relies on a combination of Ca2+ imaging and patch-clamp techniques. The insights gained from our method are expected to makea significant contribution to understanding the structure-function relationship of connexin HCs. The protocol is also suitable to screen candidate therapeutic compounds to treat connexin-related diseases linked to HC dysfunction.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
