Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 19, 2026

A Thermoplasmonic Approach for Investigating Plasma Membrane Repair in Living Cells and Model Membranes
Published on: January 19, 2024
NINJ1: implications for plasma membrane rupture and disease
Elliott M Bernard1, Ella Hartenian1
1Department of Immunobiology, University of Lausanne, Epalinges, Switzerland.
Abstract:
Cell death pathways are ancient strategies that maintain homeostasis and protect organisms from infection and injury. Lytic cell death culminates in the rupture of the plasma membrane, which was recently revealed to be driven by Ninjurin-1 (NINJ1), a plasma membrane protein that oligomerizes during cell death. NINJ1 oligomerization creates lesions in the plasma membrane that facilitate the release of cytosolic contents. In the present review, we discuss what is currently known about NINJ1 biology, focusing on the most current research into potential mechanisms of activation. We then highlight how NINJ1 has been implicated in specific disease contexts and discuss potential ways NINJ1 may contribute to disease. We conclude with the remaining open questions relating to NINJ1 biology.
Related Concept Videos
Enlargement of the Plasma Membrane
What are Membranes?
Cell Motility through Blebbing
Blebbing Through the Matrix
In multicellular...
Plasma Membrane in Bacteria and Archaea
Intracellular Signaling Affects Focal Adhesions
Some...
Membrane Fluidity
Mosaic nature of the membrane
The mosaic characteristic of the membrane helps the plasma membrane remain fluid. The integral proteins and lipids exist as separate but loosely-attached molecules in the membrane. The membrane is a relatively...

