Structure of native lens connexin 46/50 intercellular channels by cryo-EM

Janette B. Myers, Bassam G. Haddad, Susan E. O’Neill, Dror S. Chorev, Craig C. Yoshioka, Carol V. Robinson, Daniel M. Zuckerman, Steve L. Reichow

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

85 Scopus citations

Abstract

Gap junctions establish direct pathways for cell-to-cell communication through the assembly of twelve connexin subunits that form intercellular channels connecting neighbouring cells. Co-assembly of different connexin isoforms produces channels with unique properties and enables communication across cell types. Here we used single-particle cryo-electron microscopy to investigate the structural basis of connexin co-assembly in native lens gap junction channels composed of connexin 46 and connexin 50 (Cx46/50). We provide the first comparative analysis to connexin 26 (Cx26), which—together with computational studies—elucidates key energetic features governing gap junction permselectivity. Cx46/50 adopts an open-state conformation that is distinct from the Cx26 crystal structure, yet it appears to be stabilized by a conserved set of hydrophobic anchoring residues. ‘Hot spots’ of genetic mutations linked to hereditary cataract formation map to the core structural–functional elements identified in Cx46/50, suggesting explanations for many of the disease-causing effects.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)372-377
Number of pages6
JournalNature
Volume564
Issue number7736
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 20 2018

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General

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