Dynamics of Immune Cell Microvilli

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Cell Biology
• Microscopy

Background:

• Microvilli are actin-based membrane protrusions found on many immune cells, including T cells.
• T cell microvilli are involved in antigen detection and signal transduction.
• Their dynamic nature and small size necessitate advanced imaging techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a protocol for imaging T cell microvilli and surface receptors.
• To utilize lattice light-sheet microscopy for studying microvilli dynamics during T cell activation.

Main Methods:

• Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to observe T cell surface microvilli.
• Lattice light-sheet microscopy for high-resolution, high-temporal-resolution imaging.
• Protocol development for visualizing microvilli localization and movement.

Main Results:

• T cell surfaces are covered by microvilli, which are highly dynamic.
• Lattice light-sheet microscopy provides the necessary spatial and temporal resolution to study microvilli.
• The described protocol enables visualization of microvilli and surface receptor dynamics.

Conclusions:

• Lattice light-sheet microscopy is an ideal tool for studying dynamic microvilli events in T cells.
• Understanding microvilli dynamics is key to comprehending T cell antigen detection and activation.
• This protocol facilitates research into T cell-APC interactions.