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Published on: July 16, 2013
Regulation of cellular ATP release
1UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA. greg.fitz@usouthwestern.edu
Summary
Epithelial cells release adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to signal cells. This study shows ATP release in liver cells is partly mediated by exocytosis of ATP-rich vesicles, crucial for rapid cellular responses.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
- Physiology
Background:
- Epithelial cells release adenosine triphosphate (ATP) as an extracellular autocrine/paracrine signal.
- Extracellular ATP modulates cell and organ functions via purinergic receptors.
- Mechanisms of cellular ATP release remain largely undefined.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mechanisms of ATP release from epithelial cells, specifically liver cells.
- To explore the role of exocytosis in cellular ATP release.
Main Methods:
- Investigated ATP translocation through conductive pathways.
- Examined indirect evidence for exocytosis of ATP-enriched vesicles.
- Visualized ATP-enriched vesicles in liver cells.
Main Results:
- Stimuli increasing ATP release correlated with a five- to ten-fold increase in exocytosis rate.
- Inhibition of exocytosis impaired cellular ATP release.
- Evidence supports visualization of ATP-enriched vesicles involved in release.
Conclusions:
- ATP release in liver cells is partly mediated by the exocytosis of ATP-enriched vesicles.
- These vesicles are rapidly mobilized to meet physiological demands.
- Exocytosis represents a significant, rapid mechanism for cellular ATP release.
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