Activation of pannexin 1 channels by ATP through P2Y receptors and by cytoplasmic calcium

TLDR

Long‑range intercellular calcium waves propagate through two modes: IP3 diffusion via gap junctions and an extracellular ATP pathway that can be regenerative by triggering further ATP release. Pannexin‑1 channels are activated by extracellular ATP through P2Y receptors and by cytoplasmic calcium, suggesting a role for pannexin‑1 in both initiating and propagating calcium waves.

Abstract

The ability for long‐range communication through intercellular calcium waves is inherent to cells of many tissues. A dual propagation mode for these waves includes passage of IP3 through gap junctions as well as an extracellular pathway involving ATP. The wave can be regenerative and include ATP‐induced ATP release via an unknown mechanism. Here, we show that pannexin 1 channels can be activated by extracellular ATP acting through purinergic receptors of the P2Y group as well as by cytoplasmic calcium. Based on its properties, including ATP permeability, pannexin 1 may be involved in both initiation and propagation of calcium waves.