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Secretome and Tunneling Nanotubes: A Multilevel Network for Long Range Intercellular Communication between
1Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et en Immunologie, Université de Nantes, UMR 1064, ITUN, F-44000 Nantes, France.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|August 7, 2021
Summary
Endothelial cells (ECs) communicate with other cells via secreted molecules and extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes, and tunneling nanotubes (TNTs). This intercellular communication is vital for regulating vascular functions and immune responses.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Vascular Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Endothelial cells (ECs) form a critical interface between blood and tissues, regulating vascular tone, permeability, and homeostasis.
- ECs orchestrate complex cellular crosstalk essential for thrombosis, angiogenesis, inflammation, infection, and immunity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the mechanisms of intercellular communication employed by endothelial cells.
- To highlight the role of secretory pathways, extracellular vesicles (EVs), and tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) in endothelial cell function.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of the secretory pathway, including Weibel Palade Bodies (WPBs) and secretory granules.
- Investigation of ectodomain shedding of transmembrane proteins.
- Characterization of extracellular vesicles (EVs), exosomes, and tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) as mediators of intercellular transfer.
Main Results:
- ECs release various bioactive molecules through regulated exocytosis of WPBs and secretory granules.
- Ectodomain shedding provides soluble receptors and ligands that influence target cells.
- EVs (including exosomes) and TNTs facilitate the transfer of biomolecules and pathogens between cells, enabling horizontal information exchange.
Conclusions:
- Endothelial cell communication relies on diverse mechanisms, including exocytosis, ectodomain shedding, EVs, and TNTs.
- These pathways are crucial for coordinating vascular and immune responses through intercellular crosstalk.
Keywords:
chemokinescytokinesectodomain sheddingendothelial cellsexosomesextracellular vesiclesintercellular communicationsecretomesecretory pathwaytunneling nanotubesMore Related Videos
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