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Brefeldin A and the endocytic pathway. Possible implications for membrane traffic and sorting
W Hunziker1, J A Whitney, I Mellman
1Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT.
FEBS Letters
|July 27, 1992
Summary
Brefeldin A (BFA) reveals that endosomes and the Golgi complex share similar molecular transport mechanisms. This suggests endocytic pathway organelles may utilize cytoplasmic coats for function and integrity.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Membrane Trafficking
Background:
- Recent observations suggest shared molecular mechanisms between endocytic and biosynthetic pathways.
- Brefeldin A (BFA) is a macrocyclic lactone known to affect the Golgi complex.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of BFA on endosomes and the Golgi complex.
- To explore potential similarities in transport mechanisms between endocytic and secretory pathways.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of BFA's effects on endosomes and Golgi complex.
- Observation of microtubule-dependent endosomal tubule induction.
Main Results:
- BFA's effects on endosomes, including tubule induction, resemble its actions on the Golgi complex.
- These effects are regulated by guanine nucleotide and aluminum fluoride (AlF4-).
Conclusions:
- Endocytic and biosynthetic pathways likely share fundamental transport mechanisms at the molecular level.
- Organelles in the endocytic pathway may possess cytoplasmic coats similar to those in the Golgi complex, regulating function and integrity.