Connexin therapeutics: blocking connexin hemichannel pores is distinct from blocking pannexin channels or gap junctions

Compounds that block the function of connexin and pannexin protein channels have been suggested to be valuable therapeutics for a range of diseases. Some of these compounds are now in clinical trials, but for many of them, the literature is inconclusive about the molecular effect on the tissue, despite evidence of functional recovery. Blocking the different channel types has distinct physiological and pathological implications and this review describes current knowledge of connexin and pannexin protein channels, their function as channels and possible mechanisms of the channel block effect for the latest therapeutic compounds. We summarize the evidence implicating pannexins and connexins in disease, considering their homeostatic versus pathological roles, their contribution to excesive ATP release linked to disease onset and progression.

Automated summary

Compounds that block the function of connexin and pannexin protein channels have shown potential as valuable therapeutics for diseases, but the current literature on their molecular effects on tissues is inconclusive. This review discusses the distinct physiological and pathological implications of blocking different channel types, as well as the contribution of connexins and pannexins to excessive ATP release linked to disease onset and progression.