Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
Int J Mol Sci. 2021 May 27;22(11):5734. doi: 10.3390/ijms22115734.
This review highlights current knowledge on the expression and function of connexins and pannexins, transmembrane channel proteins that play an important role in intercellular communication, in both the developing and mature lymphatic vasculature. A particular focus is given to the involvement of these proteins in functions of the healthy lymphatic system. We describe their influence on the maintenance of extracellular fluid homeostasis, immune cell trafficking to draining lymph nodes and dietary nutrient absorption by intestinal villi. Moreover, new insights into connexin mutations in primary and secondary lymphedema as well as on the implication of lymphatic connexins and pannexins in acquired cardiovascular diseases are discussed, allowing for a better understanding of the role of these proteins in pathologies linked to dysfunctions in the lymphatic system.
本文综述了连接蛋白和间隙连接蛋白在发育和成熟淋巴管中的表达和功能，这些跨膜通道蛋白在细胞间通讯中发挥着重要作用。本文特别关注这些蛋白在健康淋巴管系统功能中的作用。我们描述了它们对维持细胞外液动态平衡、免疫细胞向引流淋巴结的迁移以及肠道绒毛对膳食营养物质吸收的影响。此外，本文还讨论了原发性和继发性淋巴水肿中连接蛋白突变以及淋巴管连接蛋白和间隙连接蛋白在获得性心血管疾病中的作用，这有助于更好地理解这些蛋白在与淋巴管系统功能障碍相关的病理中的作用。
