High impact information on Gja6

• Reverse transcription-PCR assays detected mRNA encoding Cx40 in IL-7-treated cells and Cx33 after both treatment conditions [1].
• Therefore, we were not able to abide by the suspicion that cx33 is present in human testis [2].
• Connexin 33: a rodent-specific member of the gap junction protein family [2]?
• Whereas immunohistochemistry using the only commercially available anti-cx33 antibody showed similar labeling to the rat within the seminiferous epithelium, we could not find any further evidence for the existence of cx33 using Western blot analysis, PCR, and RT-PCR in human testis [2].
• Based on the demonstration of the staining pattern of mitochondria in human germ cells and on preabsorption studies, we could demonstrate anti-cx33 antibody cross-reacting with mitochondrial ferritin, a protein localized in the mitochondria of human testicular spermatids [2].

Biological context of Gja6

• The connexin 33 gene has been mapped to the X chromosome, thus confirming the previous chromosomal assignment of this gene based on interspecific back-cross mapping [3].
• Additionally, it was not possible to demonstrate cx33 via PCR and immunohistochemistry in the testis of different mammals (dog, cattle, pig, horse, and marmoset monkey) with normal spermatogenesis [2].
• Unlike the pan-connexin peptide, connexin 31 and connexin 33 peptides appeared to have little effect on inducing apoptosis and germ cell loss [4].

Other interactions of Gja6

• Chromosomal assignments of mouse genes for connexin 50 and connexin 33 by somatic cell hybridization [3].
• To explore the role(s) of connexins during spermatogenesis, we utilized the small peptide antagonistic approach to specifically deplete connexin 31, connexin 33, and pan-connexin [4].

References