Figure 1
From: Role of apoptosis in pathogenesis and treatment of bone-related diseases
Gap junction channels (GJC) and hemichannel (HC) in skeleton. As it is presented in this schematic presentation, HC composing connexon placing on the body of osteocytes and osteoblasts respond to different signals which then control the transmission of different factors among are PGE2, ATP, and PNS. Also, GJC forming by contacting two HC from adjacent cells present among osteoblasts, between dendritic process of osteocytes, osteocyte-osteoblast as well as osteocyte-osteoclast. Various mechanical, hormonal, and biochemical factors affect the expression and function of GJC. Altogether, cross-talks among bone cells through these junctions regulate bone biology.