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Author Spotlight: Understanding Disease Mechanisms Through Real-Time Analysis of T-Cell Migration
Published on: May 24, 2024
Roles of the nucleus in leukocyte migration
Yutao Li1, Mengqi Chen1, Wakam Chang1
1Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China.
Abstract:
Leukocytes patrol our bodies in search of pathogens and migrate to sites of injury in response to various stimuli. Rapid and directed leukocyte motility is therefore crucial to our immunity. The nucleus is the largest and stiffest cellular organelle and a mechanical obstacle for migration through constrictions. However, the nucleus is also essential for 3D cell migration. Here, we review the roles of the nucleus in leukocyte migration, focusing on how cells deform their nuclei to aid cell motility and the contributions of the nucleus to cell migration. We discuss the regulation of the nuclear biomechanics by the nuclear lamina and how it, together with the cytoskeleton, modulates the shapes of leukocyte nuclei. We then summarize the functions of nesprins and SUN proteins in leukocytes and discuss how forces are exerted on the nucleus. Finally, we examine the mechanical roles of the nucleus in cell migration, including its roles in regulating the direction of migration and path selection.
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