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    Glossary Gap Junctions

    Gap junctions are specialized intercellular connections that allow for direct communication between adjacent cells through the exchange of ions and small molecules. In the context of hair biology, they play a crucial role in maintaining the homeostasis of hair follicle cells and facilitating the signaling necessary for hair growth and cycling. Key distinguishing characteristics of gap junctions include their formation by connexin proteins, which assemble to create channels that bridge the cytoplasmic space between cells, enabling coordinated cellular responses that are vital for healthy hair follicle function. Disruption of gap junction communication can contribute to hair loss and other hair disorders.

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    1. Epidermal Stem Cells do not Communicate Through Gap Junctions Journal of Investigative Dermatology · 2002 · 73 citations
    2. Gap junctions in Turing-type periodic feather pattern formation PLoS Biology · 2024 · 8 citations
    3. Use of primary keratinocyte cultures from plucked human hairs for analysis of gap junctional intercellular communication Toxicology in Vitro · 1991 · 3 citations
    4. Gap junctions in Turing-type periodic feather pattern formation bioRxiv (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory) · 2023
    5. Defective Expression of the Gap Junction Protein Pannexin-1 Channel Contributes to the Formation of PCOS-Realted Androgenetic Alopecia Advances in reproductive sciences · 2023
    6. Transcriptome Profiling of Pilosebaceous Units in Male Androgenetic Alopecia Reveals Altered Junctional Networks Journal of Investigative Dermatology · 2021
    7. A Novel Connexin 26 Mutation in a Patient Diagnosed with Keratitis–Ichthyosis–Deafness Syndrome 2002 · 152 citations
    8. Defining the Cellular Environment in the Organ of Corti following Extensive Hair Cell Loss: A Basis for Future Sensory Cell Replacement in the Cochlea PloS one · 2012 · 71 citations
    9. Fine Structure of the Fully Keratinized Hair Cuticle in the Head Hair of the Human Cells Tissues Organs · 1981 · 11 citations
    10. Telocytes of the male reproductive system: dynamic tissue organizers Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology · 2024 · 8 citations
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    1. I got a hair transplant a week ago and a small spot/gap appeared. Is this normal? I'm concerned hair won't grow there." Reddit · 23 Aug 2026
    2. Happiness is just a gap between sheds Reddit · 17 Nov 2025
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