Distribution and functional relevance of connexins in renin-producing cells

Pflugers Arch. 2013 Jan;465(1):71-7. doi: 10.1007/s00424-012-1134-7. Epub 2012 Jun 29.

Abstract

Renin synthesis and renin secretion at the level of renal juxtaglomerular cells are regulated by neurotransmitters, hormones, paracrine, and mechanical signals. Although morphological evidence has indicated an intense intercellular communication of renin cells via connexins between the cells composing the juxtaglomerlar area, the functional behavior of renin-secreting cells has been considered of that of individual isolated cells for a long time. Findings obtained during recent years shed first light on the functional relevance of connexins for the control of renin secretion and also for the positioning of renin-secreting cells in the kidney. This short review aims to summarize these findings and tries to set them into a functional context.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Connexins / metabolism*
  • Gap Junctions / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Juxtaglomerular Apparatus / cytology
  • Juxtaglomerular Apparatus / metabolism*
  • Renin / metabolism*
  • Renin-Angiotensin System

Substances

  • Connexins
  • Renin