Pannexin 1, a large-pore membrane channel, contributes to hypotonicity-induced ATP release in Schwann cells

Pannexin 1 (Panx 1), as a large-pore membrane channel, is highly permeable to ATP and other signaling molecules. Previous studies have demonstrated the expression of Panx 1 in the nervous system, including astrocytes, microglia, and neurons. However, the distribution and function of Panx 1 in the peripheral nervous system are not clear. Blocking the function of Panx 1 pharmacologically (carbenoxolone and probenecid) or with small interfering RNA targeting pannexins can greatly reduce hypotonicity-induced ATP release. Treatment of Schwann cells with a Ras homolog family member (Rho) GTPase inhibitor and small interfering RNA targeting Rho or cytoskeleton disrupting agents, such as nocodazole or cytochalasin D, revealed that hypotonicity-induced ATP release depended on intracellular RhoA and the cytoskeleton. These findings suggest that Panx 1 participates in ATP release in Schwann cells by regulating RhoA and the cytoskeleton arrangement. This study was approved by the Animal Ethics Committee of Nantong University, China (No. S20180806-002) on August 5, 2018.