Hemichannels are a type of ion channel that are formed by the aggregation of six connexin protein subunits on the cell membrane. These channels serve as pathways for the passage of various ions and small molecules between the cytoplasm and the extracellular environment. Unlike gap junctions, which are formed by the alignment of two hemichannels between neighboring cells, hemichannels function as standalone channels on the cell membrane. They play a crucial role in cell-cell communication, cellular homeostasis, and signaling processes. Dysregulation of hemichannels has been associated with a variety of diseases, including neurological disorders, deafness, and inflammatory conditions. Researchers are actively studying hemichannels to better understand their function and potential therapeutic targets.