Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 16, 2026

Aip1p Dynamics Are Altered by the R256H Mutation in Actin
Published on: July 30, 2014
Novel role of cPLA(2)alpha in membrane and actin dynamics
Maarten Moes1, Johannes Boonstra, Elsa Regan-Klapisz
1Department of Cellular Dynamics, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Abstract:
Actin-directed processes such as membrane ruffling and cell migration are regulated by specific signal transduction pathways that become activated by growth factor receptors. The same signaling pathways that lead to modifications in actin dynamics also activate cPLA(2)alpha. Moreover, arachidonic acid, the product of cPLA(2)alpha activity, is involved in regulation of actin dynamics. Therefore, it was investigated whether cPLA(2)alpha plays a role in actin dynamics, more specifically during growth factor-induced membrane ruffling and cell migration. Upon stimulation of ruffling and cell migration by growth factors, endogenous cPLA(2)alpha and its active phosphorylated form were shown to relocate at protrusions of the cell membrane involved in actin and membrane dynamics. Inhibition of cPLA(2)alpha activity with specific inhibitors blocked growth factor-induced membrane and actin dynamics, suggesting an important role for cPLA(2)alpha in these processes.
Related Concept Videos
Actin Polymerization and Cell Motility
Actin cytoskeleton dynamics can produce pushing, pulling, and resistance forces that help the cell to migrate.
Mechanism of Filopodia Formation
Their main function is to guide migrating cells during normal tissue morphogenesis or cancer metastasis by recognizing and making initial contacts with the extracellular matrix. However, they can also act as stationary cell anchors or help to establish communication...
Intracellular Signaling Affects Focal Adhesions
Some...
Cell Polarization by Rho Proteins
Mechanism of Lamellipodia Formation
Cytoskeletal Linker Proteins - Plakins

