Coordination of neuronal activity by gap junctions in the developing neocortex

During embryonic development, gap junctions link cells into functional communication compartments characterized by a common development fate. Increasing evidence for gap junctions between immature neurons suggest that similar mechanisms may also be at work in the developing vertebrate brain, where gap junction-coupled neuronal assemblies often precede synaptically-linked functional networks. Recent experiments in the developing mammalian neocortex demonstrated the presence of gap-junction mediated second messenger waves, similar to those in non-neuronal cells. The primary function of neuronal gap junctions, therefore, might be to coordinate biochemical activity, rather than to act as purely electrical synapses. Thus, gap junctions may serve to amplify neuronal activity produced by weak synaptic stimulation.