Connexin40 regulates platelet function

Sakthivel Vaiyapuri, Leonardo A. Moraes, Tanya Sage, Marfoua S. Ali, Kirsty R. Lewis, Martyn P. Mahaut-Smith, Ernesto Oviedo-Orta, Alexander M. Simon, Jonathan M. Gibbins

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

33 Scopus citations

Abstract

The presence of multiple connexins was recently demonstrated in platelets, with notable expression of Cx37. Studies with Cx37-deficient mice and connexin inhibitors established roles for hemichannels and gap junctions in platelet function. It was uncertain, however, whether Cx37 functions alone or in collaboration with other family members through heteromeric interactions in regulation of platelet function. Here we report the presence and functions of an additional platelet connexin, Cx40. Inhibition of Cx40 in human platelets or its deletion in mice reduces platelet aggregation, fibrinogen binding, granule secretion and clot retraction. The effects of the Cx37 inhibitor 37,43Gap27 on Cx40-/- mouse platelets and of the Cx40 inhibitor 40Gap27 on Cx37-/- mouse platelets revealed that each connexin is able to function independently. Inhibition or deletion of Cx40 reduces haemostatic responses in mice, indicating the physiological importance of this protein in platelets. We conclude that multiple connexins are involved in regulating platelet function, thereby contributing to haemostasis and thrombosis.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article number2564
JournalNature communications
Volume4
DOIs
StatePublished - 2013

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Chemistry
  • General Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology
  • General Physics and Astronomy

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