Recruitment of RNA molecules by connexin RNA-binding motifs: Implication in RNA and DNA transport through microvesicles and exosomes

Abstract

Connexins (Cxs) are integral membrane proteins that form high-conductance plasma membrane channels, allowing communication from cell to cell (via gap junctions) and from cells to the extracellular environment (via hemichannels). Initially described for their role in joining excitable cells (nerve and muscle), gap junctions (GJs) are found between virtually all cells in solid tissues and are essential for functional coordination by enabling the direct transfer of small signalling molecules, metabolites, ions, and electrical signals from cell to cell. Several studies have revealed diverse channel-independent functions of Cxs, which include the control of cell growth and tumourigenicity. Connexin43 (Cx43) is the most widespread Cx in the human body. The myriad roles of Cx43 and its implication in the development of disorders such as cancer, inflammation, osteoarthritis and Alzheimer's disease have given rise to many novel questions. Several RNA- and DNA-binding motifs were predicted in the Cx43 and Cx26 sequences using different computational methods. This review provides insights into new, ground-breaking functions of Cxs, highlighting important areas for future work such as transfer of genetic information through extracellular vesicles. We discuss the implication of potential RNA- and DNA-binding domains in the Cx43 and Cx26 sequences in the cellular communication and control of signalling pathways.

Connexins in the control of vasomotor function

“…More recently, it has been shown that connexins exert cell functions which are independent of their channel forming properties. 11,[105][106][107][108][109][110] By virtue of their interaction with other proteins, they are able to control signalling cascades regulating, for example cell migration, proliferation and growth.…”

Impact of Nanocapsules on Red Blood Cells Interplay Jointly Assessed by Optical Tweezers and Microscopy

“…Polymeric nanocapsules (NCs) are a promising system of natural carriers for targeted drug delivery because of their low cytotoxicity, shell flexibility, and high in vivo stability [22][23][24][25][26]. A wide range of drugs [27][28][29] and nucleotides of ribonucleic acid (RNA)/deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) [30][31][32] can be effectively encapsulated in the polymer capsules. Effective distribution of drugs in target tissues can be achieved by active delivery methods that are potentially much more beneficial than passive accumulation.…”

Ping-Pong—Tumor and Host in Pancreatic Cancer Progression

“…RBP also account for localization and trafficking of RNA-protein complexes in cells (115,116). Finally, the mRNA profile of Exo differs from that of cells (117), metabolic enzymes and proteins engaged in cell-cell and cell-matrix adhesion being frequently overrepresented (118)(119)(120), and possibly translated in Exo (121,122).…”