Target cell tension regulates macrophage trogocytosis
Caitlin E Cornell1, Aymeric Chorlay1, Deepak Krishnamurthy1
1Department of Bioengineering, University of California Berkeley; Berkeley, CA USA.
Research Square
|February 20, 2025
Summary
Target cell cortical tension dictates whether macrophages perform trogocytosis or phagocytosis. Increased tension favors phagocytosis, revealing a mechanical basis for this cellular decision.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Biophysics
Background:
- Macrophages engulf targets via phagocytosis or trogocytose membrane fragments.
- The decision-making process for trogocytosis versus phagocytosis remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the role of target cell cortical tension in regulating macrophage engulfment.
- Determine if target cell mechanics influence the choice between trogocytosis and phagocytosis.
Main Methods:
- Utilized antibody-opsonized cells and model vesicles with varying membrane tension.
- Manipulated target cell cortical tension and stiffness.
- Observed macrophage engulfment behavior.
Main Results:
- Low target cell tension promoted trogocytosis; high tension favored phagocytosis.
- Macrophages rapidly switched from trogocytosis to phagocytosis upon increased membrane tension.
- Target cell stiffening biased macrophages towards phagocytosis, counterable by antibody density.
Conclusions:
- Target cell cortical tension is a critical determinant of macrophage trogocytosis versus phagocytosis.
- Macrophages may not require unique molecular pathways for trogocytosis.
- Cellular mechanics, not just macrophage signaling, govern engulfment fate.
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