Expression of gap junction protein connexin 43 in HeLa cell line and its effect on gap junctional intercellular communication

AIM To investage the expression of gap junction protein connexin (Cx) 43 in human cervical carcinoma cell line HeLa and its effect on gap junctional intercellular communication. METHODS Cell culture, flow cytometer (FCM) and Lucifer Yellow scrape loading and dye transfer (SLDT) were employed to detect the expression of Cx43 pro tein in HeLa and the regulatory effect on gap junctional intercellular communication treated by AT retinoic acid (ATRA). RESULTS After treated by ATRA, HeLa cell grew much slower than the untreated ell. FCM found the positive rate of Cx43 in HeLa increased from 1.9% to 26.3%. Gap junction intracellular communication (GJIC) capacity recovered in ATRA treated cells. CONCLUSION The anti tumor effect of ATRA in HeLa may result from the up regulation of Cx43 gene and recovery of Cx43 mediated GJIC.