Synapses and neural communication in neuropathological conditions

Abstract

The central nervous system (CNS) is an extraordinary and complex communication network that receives voluminous amounts of information simultaneously but is vulnerable to disease and injury. This research emphasizes on the importance of gap junctions in neuropathological conditions and neurodegenerative diseases. Namely, we explore the degree of participation of chemical and electrical synapses within an updated panorama of integrative molecular techniques used for their study. The number of electrical and chemical synapses that coexist in the human brain is unknown, yet they are present in almost all types of cells. Frequently, electrical and chemical synapses are found separately, yet sometimes mixed electrical-chemical synapses are found coupled or together. Unfortunately, synaptic dysfunction has adverse effects on organs and vital structures. In this review, we discuss the most common diseases derived from synaptic dysfunction, as well as their occurrence in Mexico. Similarly, we discuss current treatments for diseases involving human connexins. Studies on the CNS are important to understand how this system works and explain current action mechanisms used as treatments of neuropathologies.