A receptor-induced overexpression of pannexin-1 channels indirectly mediates adenosine fibrogenic actions by favouring ATP release from human subcutaneous fibroblasts.

Disorganization of the subcutaneous tissue due to inflammation and fibrosis is a common feature in patients with myofascial pain. Dermal accumulation of adenosine favours collagen production by human subcutaneous fibroblasts (HSCF) via A receptors (AR) activation. Adenosine mimics the fibrogenic effect of inflammatory mediators (e.g. histamine, bradykinin), which promote ATP release from HSCF via plasma-membrane-bound pannexin-1 (Panx1) and/or connexin-43 (Cx43) channels, but this mechanism has never been implicated in AR actions.