scholarly journals Desmosomes as Signaling Hubs in the Regulation of Cell Behavior

2021 ◽  
Vol 9 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lisa Müller ◽  
Mechthild Hatzfeld ◽  
René Keil
Keyword(s):  
Signaling Pathways ◽  
Structural Properties ◽  
Posttranslational Modifications ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Intercellular Junctions ◽  
Cell Behavior ◽  
Specific Expression ◽  
Tissue Integrity ◽  
Independent Functions ◽  
And Function

Desmosomes are intercellular junctions, which preserve tissue integrity during homeostatic and stress conditions. These functions rely on their unique structural properties, which enable them to respond to context-dependent signals and transmit them to change cell behavior. Desmosome composition and size vary depending on tissue specific expression and differentiation state. Their constituent proteins are highly regulated by posttranslational modifications that control their function in the desmosome itself and in addition regulate a multitude of desmosome-independent functions. This review will summarize our current knowledge how signaling pathways that control epithelial shape, polarity and function regulate desmosomes and how desmosomal proteins transduce these signals to modulate cell behavior.

scholarly journals Stage-specific Localization and Expression of c-kit in the Adult Human Testis

2009 ◽  
Vol 57 (9) ◽  
pp. 861-869 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sreepoorna K. Unni ◽  
Deepak N. Modi ◽  
Shilpa G. Pathak ◽  
Jayesh V. Dhabalia ◽  
Deepa Bhartiya
Keyword(s):  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Protein Localization ◽  
Immunohistochemical Analysis ◽  
Human Testis ◽  
Specific Expression ◽  
Adult Human ◽  
Kit Receptor ◽  
Specific Localization ◽  
Human Spermatogenesis ◽  
And Function

The c-kit receptor (KIT) and its ligand, stem cell factor (SCF), represent one of the key regulators of testicular formation, development, and function and have been extensively studied in various animal models. The present study was undertaken to characterize the pattern of localization and expression of c-kit in normal adult human testis. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that KIT is expressed in the cytoplasm of spermatogonia, acrosomal granules of spermatids, and Leydig cells. Interestingly, a rather heterogenous pattern of expression of the protein along the basement membrane was observed. Intense protein localization in spermatogonia was detected in stages I–III, whereas low expression was observed in stages IV–VI of the seminiferous epithelium, indicating that the expression of the molecule was stage specific. In situ hybridization studies revealed that the transcripts of the gene were also localized in a similar non-uniform pattern. To the best of our knowledge, such a stage-specific expression of KIT has not been reported previously in the human testis. The results of the present study may expand current knowledge about the c-kit/SCF system in human spermatogenesis.

Isoform-specific expression and function of neuregulin

Development ◽  
1997 ◽  
Vol 124 (18) ◽  
pp. 3575-3586 ◽  
Author(s):  
D. Meyer ◽  
T. Yamaai ◽  
A. Garratt ◽  
E. Riethmacher-Sonnenberg ◽  
D. Kane ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Biological Effects ◽  
Type I ◽  
Mouse Development ◽  
Specific Expression ◽  
Independent Functions ◽  
Cell Growth And Differentiation ◽  
Cranial Ganglia ◽  
And Function

Neuregulin (also known as NDF, heregulin, ARIA, GGF or SMDF), induces cell growth and differentiation. Biological effects of neuregulin are mediated by members of the erbB family of tyrosine kinase receptors. Three major neuregulin isoforms are produced from the gene, which differ substantially in sequence and in overall structure. Here we use in situ hybridization with isoform-specific probes to illustrate the spatially distinct patterns of expression of the isoforms during mouse development. Ablation of the neuregulin gene in the mouse has demonstrated multiple and independent functions of this factor in development of both the nervous system and the heart. We show here that targeted mutations that affect different isoforms result in distinct phenotypes, demonstrating that isoforms can take over specific functions in vivo. Type I neuregulin is required for generation of neural crest-derived neurons in cranial ganglia and for trabeculation of the heart ventricle, whereas type III neuregulin plays an important role in the early development of Schwann cells. The complexity of neuregulin functions in development is therefore due to independent roles played by distinct isoforms.

scholarly journals The role of micro-RNAs in the female reproductive tract

Reproduction ◽  
2012 ◽  
Vol 143 (5) ◽  
pp. 559-576 ◽  
Author(s):  
Warren B Nothnick
Keyword(s):  
Posttranslational Modifications ◽  
Reproductive Tract ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Female Reproductive Tract ◽  
Micro Rna ◽  
Proper Function ◽  
Posttranscriptional Gene Regulation ◽  
Micro Rnas ◽  
And Function

Proper development and function of the female reproductive tract are essential for successful reproduction. Regulation of the differentiated functions of the organs that make up the female reproductive tract is well established to occur at multiple levels including transcription, translation, and posttranslational modifications. Micro-RNA (miRNA)-mediated posttranscriptional gene regulation has emerged as a fundamental mechanism controlling normal tissue development and function. Emerging evidence indicates that miRNAs are expressed within the organs of the female reproductive tract where they function to regulate cellular pathways necessary for proper function of these organs. In this review, the functional significance of miRNAs in the development and function of the organs of the female reproductive tract is discussed. Initial discussion focuses on the role of miRNAs in the development of the organs of the female reproductive tract highlighting recent studies that clearly demonstrate that mice with disrupted Dicer1 expression are sterile, fail to develop uterine glands, and have muted estrogen responsiveness. Next, emphasis moves to discussion on our current knowledge on the characterization of miRNA expression in each of the organs of the female reproductive tract. When possible, information is presented and discussed with respect to regulation, function, and/or functional targets of these miRNA within each specific organ of the female reproductive tract.

scholarly journals Analyzing signaling activity and function in hematopoietic cells

2021 ◽  
Vol 218 (7) ◽  
Author(s):  
Tobias Kull ◽  
Timm Schroeder
Keyword(s):  
Cell Signaling ◽  
Signaling Pathways ◽  
Progenitor Cell ◽  
Cell Behavior ◽  
Cell Fates ◽  
Hematopoietic Stem ◽  
Related Individual ◽  
Health And Disease ◽  
And Function ◽  
Signaling Activity

Cells constantly sense their environment, allowing the adaption of cell behavior to changing needs. Fine-tuned responses to complex inputs are computed by signaling pathways, which are wired in complex connected networks. Their activity is highly context-dependent, dynamic, and heterogeneous even between closely related individual cells. Despite lots of progress, our understanding of the precise implementation, relevance, and possible manipulation of cellular signaling in health and disease therefore remains limited. Here, we discuss the requirements, potential, and limitations of the different current technologies for the analysis of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell signaling and its effect on cell fates.

scholarly journals Cross Talk Between Cyclic Nucleotides and Calcium Signaling Pathways in Plants–Achievements and Prospects

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Brygida Świeżawska-Boniecka ◽  
Maria Duszyn ◽  
Mateusz Kwiatkowski ◽  
Adriana Szmidt-Jaworska ◽  
Krzysztof Jaworski
Keyword(s):  
Signaling Pathways ◽  
Cross Talk ◽  
Calcium Ions ◽  
Cyclic Nucleotides ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Spatiotemporal Pattern ◽  
Signal Molecules ◽  
Cyclic Nucleotide Gated Channels ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
And Function

A variety of plant cellular activities are regulated through mechanisms controlling the level of signal molecules, such as cyclic nucleotides (cNMPs, e.g., cyclic adenosine 3′:5′-monophosphate, cAMP, and cyclic guanosine 3′:5′- monophosphate, cGMP) and calcium ions (Ca2+). The mechanism regulating cNMP levels affects their synthesis, degradation, efflux and cellular distribution. Many transporters and the spatiotemporal pattern of calcium signals, which are transduced by multiple, tunable and often strategically positioned Ca2+-sensing elements, play roles in calcium homeostasis. Earlier studies have demonstrated that while cNMPs and Ca2+ can act separately in independent transduction pathways, they can interact and function together. Regardless of the context, the balance between Ca2+ and cNMP is the most important consideration. This balance seems to be crucial for effectors, such as phosphodiesterases, cyclic nucleotide gated channels and cyclase activity. Currently, a wide range of molecular biology techniques enable thorough analyses of cellular cross talk. In recent years, data have indicated relationships between calcium ions and cyclic nucleotides in mechanisms regulating specific signaling pathways. The purpose of this study is to summarize the current knowledge on nucleotide-calcium cross talk in plants.

Intricate Regulation of Phosphoenolpyruvate Carboxykinase (PEPCK) Isoforms in Normal Physiology and Disease

2019 ◽  
Vol 19 (4) ◽  
pp. 247-272 ◽  
Author(s):  
Venu Seenappa ◽  
Manjunath B. Joshi ◽  
Kapaettu Satyamoorthy
Keyword(s):  
Translational Regulation ◽  
Phosphoenolpyruvate Carboxykinase ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Regulatory Elements ◽  
Copy Number Variations ◽  
Specific Expression ◽  
Physiological Processes ◽  
Clade B ◽  
And Function ◽  
Endogenous Modulators

Background:The phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) isoforms are considered as rate-limiting enzymes for gluconeogenesis and glyceroneogenesis pathways. PEPCK exhibits several interesting features such as a) organelle-specific isoforms (cytosolic and a mitochondrial) in vertebrate clade, b) tissue-specific expression of isoforms and c) organism-specific requirement of ATP or GTP as a cofactor. In higher organisms, PEPCK isoforms are intricately regulated and activated through several physiological and pathological stimuli such as corticoids, hormones, nutrient starvation and hypoxia. Isoform-specific transcriptional/translational regulation and their interplay in maintaining glucose homeostasis remain to be fully understood. Mounting evidence indicates the significant involvement of PEPCK isoforms in physiological processes (development and longevity) and in the progression of a variety of diseases (metabolic disorders, cancer, Smith–Magenis syndrome).Objective:The present systematic review aimed to assimilate existing knowledge of transcriptional and translational regulation of PEPCK isoforms derived from cell, animal and clinical models.Conclusion:Based on current knowledge and extensive bioinformatics analysis, in this review we have provided a comparative (epi)genetic understanding of PCK1 and PCK2 genes encompassing regulatory elements, disease-associated polymorphisms, copy number variations, regulatory miRNAs and CpG densities. We have also discussed various exogenous and endogenous modulators of PEPCK isoforms and their signaling mechanisms. A comprehensive review of existing knowledge of PEPCK regulation and function may enable identification of the underlying gaps to design new pharmacological strategies and interventions for the diseases associated with gluconeogenesis.

scholarly journals Runx transcription factors in the development and function of the definitive hematopoietic system

Blood ◽  
2017 ◽  
Vol 129 (15) ◽  
pp. 2061-2069 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marella de Bruijn ◽  
Elaine Dzierzak
Keyword(s):  
Transcription Factors ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Biological Effects ◽  
Regulation Of Gene Expression ◽  
Loss Of Function ◽  
Specific Expression ◽  
Hematopoietic Stem ◽  
Hematopoietic Development ◽  
Cell Lineages ◽  
And Function

AbstractThe Runx family of transcription factors (Runx1, Runx2, and Runx3) are highly conserved and encode proteins involved in a variety of cell lineages, including blood and blood-related cell lineages, during developmental and adult stages of life. They perform activation and repressive functions in the regulation of gene expression. The requirement for Runx1 in the normal hematopoietic development and its dysregulation through chromosomal translocations and loss-of-function mutations as found in acute myeloid leukemias highlight the importance of this transcription factor in the healthy blood system. Whereas another review will focus on the role of Runx factors in leukemias, this review will provide an overview of the normal regulation and function of Runx factors in hematopoiesis and focus particularly on the biological effects of Runx1 in the generation of hematopoietic stem cells. We will present the current knowledge of the structure and regulatory features directing lineage-specific expression of Runx genes, the models of embryonic and adult hematopoietic development that provide information on their function, and some of the mechanisms by which they affect hematopoietic function.

scholarly journals Impact of Chaperone-Mediated Autophagy in Brain Aging: Neurodegenerative Diseases and Glioblastoma

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jaione Auzmendi-Iriarte ◽  
Ander Matheu
Keyword(s):  
Neurodegenerative Diseases ◽  
Brain Aging ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Tissue Integrity ◽  
Cargo Protein ◽  
Cellular Energetics ◽  
The Individual ◽  
And Function ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Chaperone Mediated Autophagy

Brain aging is characterized by a time-dependent decline of tissue integrity and function, and it is a major risk for neurodegenerative diseases and brain cancer. Chaperone-mediated autophagy (CMA) is a selective form of autophagy specialized in protein degradation, which is based on the individual translocation of a cargo protein through the lysosomal membrane. Regulation of processes such as proteostasis, cellular energetics, or immune system activity has been associated with CMA, indicating its pivotal role in tissue homeostasis. Since first studies associating Parkinson’s disease (PD) to CMA dysfunction, increasing evidence points out that CMA is altered in both physiological and pathological brain aging. In this review article, we summarize the current knowledge regarding the impact of CMA during aging in brain physiopathology, highlighting the role of CMA in neurodegenerative diseases and glioblastoma, the most common and aggressive brain tumor in adults.

scholarly journals Skin appendage-derived stem cells: cell biology and potential for wound repair

2016 ◽  
Vol 4 ◽  
pp. 1-6 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jiangfan Xie ◽  
Bin Yao ◽  
Yutong Han ◽  
Sha Huang ◽  
Xiaobing Fu
Keyword(s):  
Stem Cells ◽  
Cell Biology ◽  
Wound Repair ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Potential Contribution ◽  
Skin Appendage ◽  
Tissue Integrity ◽  
Comprehensive Knowledge ◽  
Skin Appendages ◽  
And Function

Abstract Stem cells residing in the epidermis and skin appendages are imperative for skin homeostasis and regeneration. These stem cells also participate in the repair of the epidermis after injuries, inducing restoration of tissue integrity and function of damaged tissue. Unlike epidermis-derived stem cells, comprehensive knowledge about skin appendage-derived stem cells remains limited. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of skin appendage-derived stem cells, including their fundamental characteristics, their preferentially expressed biomarkers, and their potential contribution involved in wound repair. Finally, we will also discuss current strategies, future applications, and limitations of these stem cells, attempting to provide some perspectives on optimizing the available therapy in cutaneous repair and regeneration.

Structural modifications of intercellular junctions.

1978 ◽  
Vol 36 (2) ◽  
pp. 330-331
Author(s):  
J. Metz ◽  
M. Merlo ◽  
W. G. Forssmann
Keyword(s):  
Gap Junctions ◽  
Intercellular Junctions ◽  
Cell Isolation ◽  
Extrahepatic Cholestasis ◽  
Structural Modifications ◽  
Pancreatic Duct Ligation ◽  
Pancreatic Cells ◽  
Duct Ligation ◽  
Thin Sectioning ◽  
And Function

Structure and function of intercellular junctions were studied under the electronmicroscope using conventional thin sectioning and freeze-etch replicas. Alterations of tight and gap junctions were analyzed 1. of exocrine pancreatic cells under cell isolation conditions and pancreatic duct ligation and 2. of hepatocytes during extrahepatic cholestasis.During the different steps of cell isolation of exocrine pancreatic cells, gradual changes of tight and gap junctions were observed. Tight junctions, which formed belt-like structures around the apex of control acinar cells in situ, subsequently diminished, became interrupted and were concentrated into macular areas (Fig. 1). Aggregations of membrane associated particles, which looked similar to gap junctions, were intermixed within tight junctional areas (Fig. 1). These structures continously disappeared in the last stages of the isolation procedure. The intercellular junctions were finally separated without destroying the integrity of the cell membrane, which was confirmed with porcion yellow, lanthanum chloride and horse radish peroxidase.

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