Channel-mediated ATP release in the nervous system.

ATP is well established as a transmitter and modulator in the peripheral and central nervous system. While conventional exocytotic release of ATP at synapses occurs, this transmitter is unusual in also being released into the extracellular space via large-pored plasma membrane channels. This review considers the channels that are known to be permeable to ATP and some of the functions of channel-mediated ATP release.

Sniffing Out Urinary Tract Infection-Diagnosis Based on Volatile Organic Compounds and Smell Profile.

Current available methods for the clinical diagnosis of urinary tract infection (UTI) rely on a urine dipstick test or culturing of pathogens. The dipstick test is rapid (available in 1-2 min), but has a low positive predictive value, while culturing is time-consuming and delays diagnosis (24-72 h between sample collection and pathogen identification). Due to this delay, broad-spectrum antibiotics are often prescribed immediately.

Structural determinants of CO-sensitivity in the β connexin family suggested by evolutionary analysis.

A subclade of connexins comprising Cx26, Cx30, and Cx32 are directly sensitive to CO. CO binds to a carbamylation motif present in these connexins and causes their hemichannels to open. Cx26 may contribute to CO-dependent regulation of breathing in mammals.