The protein encoded by this gene belongs to the innexin family. Innexin family members are the structural components of gap junctions. This protein and pannexin 1 are abundantly expressed in central nervous system (CNS) and are coexpressed in various neuronal populations. Studies in Xenopus oocytes suggest that this protein alone and in combination with pannexin 1 may form cell type-specific gap junctions with distinct properties. Multiple transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been found for this gene. Structural component of the gap junctions and the hemichannels. Pannexin 2 is an important regulator of the insulin secretory capacity and apoptosis in pancreatic β-cells.