Connexin 43 phosphorylation and degradation are required for adipogenesis

► Changes in Cx43 levels are required for adipogenic differentiation. ► Transient alterations in Cx43 subcellular localization occur during adipogenesis. ► Cx43 phosphorylation is transiently elevated during clonal induction of adipogenesis. ► Inhibition of proteasomal degradation of Cx43 blocks adipogenesis. ► Constitutive expression of Cx43 inhibits adipocyte maturation.