Abstract: Abstract: ObjectiveTo determine the expression of connexin43(Cx43) protein and explore the functional modulation of gap
junction intercellular communication in astrocytes. MethodsCultured neonatal SD rat astrocytes were divided into normal
control group, all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) group (treated with10μmol/LATRAfor24h) and oleamide group (treated with
25μmol/Loleamidefor2h). Western blotting and immunofluorescence assay were used to detect total cellular Cx43protein
expression and Cx43expression on the surface of the astrocytes, respectively. Parachute assay was used to evaluate the
functional changes of gap junction intercellular communication of the astrocytes. ResultsCompared with the normal control
cells, ATRA treatment resulted in a significantly increased expression of total Cx43protein in the astrocytes (P<0.01), and
oleamide significantly suppressed its expression (P<0.01). Similarly, ATRA obviously enhanced while oleamide suppressed
Cx43protein expression on the surface of the astrocytes. The gap junction intercellular communication of the astrocytes was
enhanced by ATRA (P<0.01) and inhibited by oleamide (P<0.01). ConclusionATRA and oleamide can modulate gap junction
intercellular communication of the astrocytes possibly by regulating the expression of Cx43protein.