Molecular basis of cardiomiopathy

The normal heart rhythm is guaranteed by an important intercellular junctions system, named Gap Junction (GJs). Each GJs consists of two units called connexons formed by six specific trans-membrane proteins named connexins (Cx). Recent reports suggest the presence of Cx43 in the inner mitochondrial membrane where it plays an important cardioprotection mechanism. Alterations in Cx43 expression and distribution were observed in several myocardium disease; i.e. in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, heart failure and ischemia. Thus, in this doctoral study, we investigated the role of Cx43, and in particular of mitochondrial Cx43, in different cardiomyopaties models... [edited by Author]