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Changes in cell surface excess are coordinated with protrusion dynamics during 3D motility.

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Cells store excess cell surface (CSE) in projections for rapid shape changes. Microtubules (MTs) are hypothesized to regulate CSE dynamics, influencing cell motility in 3D environments.

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Area of Science:

  • Cell Biology
  • Biophysics

Background:

  • Cells require mechanisms to rapidly alter morphology for functions like migration and tissue remodeling.
  • Cell surface excess (CSE) is a reservoir of membrane that can be deployed to cover cellular extensions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of cell surface excess (CSE) in cell morphology changes within a 3D environment.
  • To explore the relationship between CSE dynamics, protrusion formation, and cell motility.
  • To hypothesize the regulatory role of microtubules (MTs) in CSE management and its impact on cell behavior.

Main Methods:

  • High-resolution imaging of F-actin and microtubules (MTs) in various cell lines cultured in 3D collagen.
  • Observation and correlation of changes in CSE with protrusion dynamics.
  • Analysis of cell motility following MT depolymerization.

Main Results:

  • Cells in 3D collagen exhibit substantial CSE, utilized for covering protrusions, similar to 2D cultures.
  • Retraction of protrusions leads to CSE storage on the cell body.
  • Correlated changes between CSE levels and protrusion dynamics were observed.
  • Microtubules (MTs) are hypothesized to stabilize CSE and regulate its dynamics.

Conclusions:

  • Cell surface excess (CSE) is a critical component for dynamic cell morphology changes in 3D.
  • Microtubules (MTs) likely play a key regulatory role in managing CSE, impacting cell motility.
  • MTs' influence on CSE may explain differential effects on mesenchymal versus amoeboid motility.