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Rapid leukocyte migration by integrin-independent flowing and squeezing
Tim Lämmermann1, Bernhard L Bader, Susan J Monkley
1Department of Molecular Medicine, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, 82152 Martinsried, Germany.
Nature
|May 3, 2008
Summary
Integrins are not essential for leukocyte migration in 3D tissues. Instead, cells use actin-network expansion for movement, with contraction aiding passage through narrow gaps.
Area of Science:
- Cell biology
- Immunology
- Biophysics
Background:
- Integrins link cell cytoskeleton to the extracellular matrix, crucial for cell adhesion and migration.
- Leukocyte migration in 2D environments relies on integrin-mediated adhesion.
- The role of integrins in 3D leukocyte migration within tissues remains debated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the roles of adhesive, contractile, and protrusive forces in 3D leukocyte chemotaxis.
- To determine the necessity of integrins for leukocyte migration in three-dimensional environments.
Main Methods:
- Ablation of all integrin heterodimers in murine leukocytes.
- In vivo and in vitro studies of interstitial leukocyte chemotaxis.
- Analysis of cellular forces during migration.
Main Results:
- Leukocytes lacking functional integrins successfully migrate in 3D environments.
- Migration in 3D is driven by actin-network expansion and leading-edge protrusion.
- Myosin II-dependent contraction is only required for squeezing through narrow constrictions.
Conclusions:
- Integrins are dispensable for leukocyte migration in 3D tissue environments.
- Actin-network expansion is the primary propulsive force for 3D leukocyte movement.
- Contraction plays a specialized role in navigating confined spaces.
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