Gap junctions in brain glial cells and development

Abstract

In mammalian brain, glia are likely the most abundant and widespread cell population connected by gap junctions. Here, we summarize recent findings concerning the distribution, expression, and regulation of gap junction proteins in different glial subtypes and their possible roles in modulating the function of the nervous system. Intercellular communication through gap junctions is proposed to be one of the required interactions between cells during development, and we discuss how gap junctions could participate in development of brain glial cells.