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Basolateral BMP signaling in polarized epithelial cells
Masao Saitoh1, Takuya Shirakihara, Akira Fukasawa
1Department of Biochemistry, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine and Engineering, University of Yamanashi, Chuo, Yamanashi, Japan. msaitoh-ind@umin.ac.jp
Plos One
|May 16, 2013
Summary
Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) maintain epithelial cell polarity. BMP signals transmit from basolateral receptors, enhancing tight junctions and transepithelial resistance (TER).
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Epithelial Biology
Background:
- Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are crucial regulators of mesenchymal cell functions.
- The specific roles of BMPs in epithelial cells remain largely uncharacterized.
- Understanding BMP signaling in epithelial cells is vital for tissue homeostasis and disease research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the localization and function of BMP receptors in polarized epithelial cells.
- To elucidate the mechanisms by which BMPs influence epithelial barrier integrity.
- To determine the contribution of BMP signaling to epithelial polarity.
Main Methods:
- Utilized polarized epithelial cell models.
- Investigated BMP receptor localization using immunofluorescence.
- Assessed the impact of BMP stimulation on tight junction protein expression.
- Measured transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) to evaluate barrier function.
Main Results:
- BMP receptor complexes were exclusively found at the basolateral surface of polarized epithelial cells.
- Basolateral BMP stimulation led to increased expression of tight junction components.
- BMP treatment enhanced transepithelial resistance (TER), reinforcing the epithelial barrier.
- BMPs counteracted the reduction in TER induced by TGF-β or anti-tumor drugs.
Conclusions:
- BMP signaling in epithelial cells originates from basolaterally localized receptors.
- BMPs play a critical role in maintaining epithelial polarity and barrier function.
- BMP signaling enhances epithelial integrity by upregulating tight junction components and TER.
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