THE EFFECT OF TRANSFECTED CX43 GENE ON THE GJIC AND PROLIFERATION OF GLIOMA CELLS

Objective: To evaluate the effect of Cx43 gene on gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) and proliferation of glioma cells. Methods: Cx43 cDNA was transfected into TJ905 human glioblastoma cells using lipofectamine. The expression of Cx43 was identified by Northern blot analyses, in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry. MTT assay and average number of AgNORs (Argyrophlic nuclear organizer regions) were used to determine the cell proliferation. TUNEL method was used for detection of cell apoptosis, and scrape loading and dye tranfer method for examination of GJIC. Results: The Cx43 expression was greatly upregulated when Cx43 gene was transfected into TJ905 glioma cells. The cell proliferation was inhibited while the cell apoptosis was not increased and GJIC was significantly restored in the glioma cells tranfected with Cx43 gene. Conclusion: Cx43 gene has an inhibitory effect on the glioma cell proliferation, but no effect on induction of cell apoptosis. The restoration of GJIC may be the major mechanism involved in its effect. Cx43 gene can be the candidate for gene therapy of gliomas.