Connexin-dependent signaling in neuro-hormonal systems

► Connexins and gap junctions are obligatory features of endocrine cells. ► Connexins contribute to control endocrine secretions. ► Connexins may also modulate the growth, differentiation and death of endocrine cells. ► The mechanisms involved are dependent on the cell-to-cell coupling. ► A pathophysiological role of connexins in endocrine diseases is suggested by correlative evidence.