Phosphorylation of connexin 43 induced by traumatic brain injury promotes exosome release

We have demonstrated in rat traumatic brain injury (TBI) models that both phosphorylated connexin 43 (p-Cx43) expression and exosome release are elevated in the hippocampus following TBI. The promoted exosome release depends on the phosphorylation of Cx43 and requires ERK signaling activation. Exosome treatment could partially restore the attenuated long-term potentiation. Our results provide new insight for future therapeutic direction on the functional recovery of TBI by promoting p-Cx43-dependent exosome release but limiting the gap junction-mediated bystander effect.