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Detection and Quantification of Tunneling Nanotubes Using 3D Volume View Images

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Investigating Tunneling Nanotubes in Cancer Cells: Guidelines for Structural and Functional Studies through Cell

Fatéméh Dubois^1,2, Magalie Bénard³, Bastien Jean-Jacques^1,2

¹Normandie Université, UNICAEN, CEA, CNRS, ISTCT/CERVOxy Group, F-14000 Caen, France GIP CYCERON.

Biomed Research International

|May 1, 2020

Summary

Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) facilitate cancer cell communication, aiding tumor development and treatment resistance. This review provides guidelines for studying TNT structure and function, crucial for understanding cancer progression.

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Area of Science:

Cell Biology
Cancer Research
Microscopy

Background:

Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are vital in cancer cell communication, influencing tumorigenesis and treatment resistance.
Studying TNTs is challenging due to lack of specific biomarkers, their fragile nature, and free-floating structures.

Purpose of the Study:

To review guidelines for studying the structure and functionality of TNTs in cancer and non-cancerous cells.
To highlight the importance of culture conditions, live-cell visualization, and cytoskeletal component identification for TNT research.

Main Methods:

Focus on optimizing culture conditions (surface, density) and live-cell imaging for TNT visualization.
Utilize high-resolution imaging techniques like Stimulated Emission Depletion (STED) nanoscopy and Electron Microscopies (TEM, SEM).
Investigate the role of organelles in TNT formation and intercellular transfer.

Main Results:

Identified critical factors for studying TNTs, including culture parameters and visualization techniques.
Emphasized the role of cytoskeleton and organelles in TNT-mediated intercellular communication.
Proposed advanced imaging and biological models (liquid air interface, ex vivo, in vivo) for TNT research.

Conclusions:

Provides a comprehensive review of methodologies for studying TNTs in cancer.
Underscores the significance of TNTs in cancer progression and potential therapeutic strategies.
Discusses future directions and clinical implications of TNT research.