Inhibition of Gap Junction–Mediated Intercellular Communication by TNF-α in Cultured Human Corneal Fibroblasts

Abstract

TNF-alpha inhibited GJIC in cultured human corneal fibroblasts, an effect that was possibly mediated by dephosphorylation and consequent degradation of Cx43. The downregulation of GJIC among keratocytes in response to TNF-alpha may contribute to the breakdown of corneal homeostasis during corneal inflammation.