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Related Concept Videos

Overview of Cell Death01:30

Overview of Cell Death

Cell death is an essential process where the body gets rid of old or damaged cells. Cell proliferation and death need to be balanced, as an imbalance between the two may lead to cancer or autoimmune diseases.
Cell death was observed in the early 19th century, but there was no experimental evidence to prove it. In 1842, Carl Vogt first discovered cell death in a metamorphic toad; however, it was not termed ‘cell death.’ Scientists discovered different cell death pathways only in the 20th century...
The Extrinsic Apoptotic Pathway01:17

The Extrinsic Apoptotic Pathway

The extrinsic apoptotic pathway is initiated when extracellular death-inducing signals, such as specific cytokines, activate the death receptors expressed on the cell surface. The immune cells involved in this pathway are natural killer cells (NK cells) and cytotoxic T-lymphocytes. NK cells are critical in innate immune response, while cytotoxic T-lymphocytes are associated with adaptive immune response. These cells recognize specific receptors expressed on the altered cells and activate...
GPCR Desensitization01:12

GPCR Desensitization

G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling plays a crucial role in cell functioning. GPCR desensitization is an equally essential process. It allows cells to respond to changing environments and regain sensitivity to new stimuli while preventing unnecessary stimulation when no longer needed. Prolonged exposure to stimuli leads to GPCR desensitization. It involves blocking the receptors from binding and activating additional G proteins. This inhibits activation of downstream effectors, thereby...
Cellular Injury IV: Necrosis01:16

Cellular Injury IV: Necrosis

Necrosis is a form of irreversible cell death caused by severe injury such as ischemia, toxins, or trauma. Unlike programmed cell death, it is an uncontrolled, pathological process that typically provokes inflammation in surrounding tissues.Pathophysiologic ChangesNecrosis begins when cells sustain critical damage, leading to swelling of organelles, particularly mitochondria, and rapid ATP depletion. As energy levels decline, membrane ion pumps fail, leading to calcium influx and eventually,...
Cellular Injury IlI: Cellular Death01:11

Cellular Injury IlI: Cellular Death

Cell death is the irreversible loss of cellular structure and function, representing the final stage of severe injury. It plays a key role in both normal physiology and disease.Types of Cell DeathThe two main types are necrosis and apoptosis, though others like necroptosis and pyroptosis also exist.Necrosis:Necrosis is an unregulated form of cell death caused by severe injury such as trauma, toxins, or ischemia. It is characterized by cell swelling, membrane loss, rupture, and leakage of...
Autophagic Cell Death01:18

Autophagic Cell Death

Christian de Duve discovered “autophagy,” a process in which cellular components are engulfed by membrane-bound organelles called autophagosomes. The autophagosomes then fuse with lysosomes to digest the enclosed contents. Autophagy is generally activated in cells to prevent cell death. However, cell death is triggered when the damage is beyond repair.
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Real-time Live-cell Flow Cytometry to Investigate Calcium Influx, Pore Formation, and Phagocytosis by P2X7 Receptors in Adult Neural Progenitor Cells
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P2X(7) receptor: Death or life?

Elena Adinolfi1, Cinzia Pizzirani, Marco Idzko

  • 1Department of Experimental and Diagnostic Medicine, Section of General Pathology and Interdisciplinary Center for the Study of Inflammation (ICSI), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.

Purinergic Signalling
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The P2X(7) receptor, a plasma membrane protein, can kill cells, trigger responses, and stimulate proliferation. This review details its complex roles, including cell death pathways and cancer development.

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Real-time Live-cell Flow Cytometry to Investigate Calcium Influx, Pore Formation, and Phagocytosis by P2X7 Receptors in Adult Neural Progenitor Cells
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Proteomics to Identify Proteins Interacting with P2X2 Ligand-Gated Cation Channels
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Proteomics to Identify Proteins Interacting with P2X2 Ligand-Gated Cation Channels

Published on: May 18, 2009

Area of Science:

  • Cell biology
  • Molecular biology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • The P2X(7) receptor is a plasma membrane ion channel with diverse cellular functions.
  • Its roles extend from cell death induction to proliferation stimulation.
  • Recent research highlights its complexity and involvement in various biological processes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide an overview of the multiplicity and complexity of P2X(7)-mediated responses.
  • To discuss recent findings regarding the P2X(7) receptor.
  • To highlight the receptor's involvement in apoptosis, necrosis, and carcinogenesis.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent studies on the P2X(7) receptor.
  • Analysis of P2X(7) receptor's role in cell death pathways (apoptosis and necrosis).
  • Examination of P2X(7) receptor's function in cancer development.

Main Results:

  • P2X(7) receptor activation leads to diverse cellular outcomes, including cell death and proliferation.
  • Specific early and late signs of apoptosis and necrosis are linked to P2X(7) receptor activation.
  • Emerging evidence implicates P2X(7) receptor in the mechanisms of carcinogenesis.

Conclusions:

  • The P2X(7) receptor is a multifaceted molecule with significant implications in cell biology.
  • Understanding P2X(7) receptor's role in cell death and proliferation is crucial.
  • Further research into P2X(7) receptor's function in cancer is warranted.