Panx1 - Pannexin 1

The protein encoded by this gene is a plasma membrane protein that is a structural component of gap junctions. The encoded protein acts as a homodimer or as a heterodimer with other isoforms or proteins. Two additional variants have been found, and the isoforms expressed from them are found in the cytoplasm. It is thought that these two isoforms could attenuate the actions of the membrane-bound protein. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2012]