The gene for human gap junction protein connexin37 (GJA4) maps to chromosome 1p35.1, in the vicinity of D1S195

Gap junctions are plasma membrane structures containing channels that allow the exchange of small molecules between cells. Each hemichannel is an oligomer of six subunit proteins called connexins. The formation of intercellular channels is possible through interaction with connexins in the plasma membrane of adjacent cells. Gapjunction channels allow the passage of different molecules up to 1 kDa, such as ions, many second messengers, and small metabolites. Connexins are numbered according to their molecular mass in kilodaltons, calculated from the gene sequences. They are found in the vast majority of cell types and facilitate intercellular communication between cells. Connexins are encoded by a family of homologous genes with highly conserved extracellular and transmembrane domains, whereas the cytoplasmic regions are specific for each subtype. All connexin genes described up to now contain no introns in the coding region. 17 refs., 1 fig.