The Brain’s Secret Vascular Communication Network
Recent research uncovers the crucial role of connexin proteins in the brain’s vascular system. These proteins form gap junctions, which act as ultra-fast communication portals between arterial cells. Through these junctions, arteries coordinate blood delivery to different brain regions in milliseconds, ensuring that active neurons always receive the oxygen and nutrients they need.
How Connexin Proteins Nourish the Brain on Demand
When you focus, solve a puzzle, or react quickly, your brain’s demand for energy spikes. Connexin proteins help arteries sense where blood is needed most, enabling targeted supply almost instantaneously. This discovery reveals that our vascular system is not only about pipes and pumps, but also about rapid, coordinated teamwork. Understanding these mechanisms opens new possibilities for treating strokes, dementia, and other brain-related conditions that stem from impaired blood flow.
Sources:
The Hindu: Connexin proteins rally arteries to nourish brain on demand
