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Cell surface protein decreases microvilli and ruffles on transformed mouse and chick cells
Abstract:
Transformation of cultured fibroblasts usually results in a decrease in a high molecular weight cell surface glycoprotein (LETS protein) and often in increased numbers of surface microvilli and ruffles. We have isolated such a major cell surface glycoprotein from chick embryo fibroblasts; this protein, CSP, is decreased after transformation. Treatment of a mouse tumor cell line (SV1), L929 cells, and transformed chick fibroblasts with CSP results in a decrease in the number of microvilli and marginal ruffles, accompanied by restoration of a more normal morphology.
Insights
Restoring a key cell surface glycoprotein (CSP) in transformed fibroblasts reverses abnormal cell surface features like microvilli and ruffles, promoting a more normal cell morphology.
Area of Science:
- Cell biology
- Biochemistry
- Cancer research
Background:
- Cell transformation often leads to reduced levels of high molecular weight cell surface glycoproteins, such as the LETS protein.
- Transformed cells typically exhibit increased surface microvilli and ruffles, indicating altered cell morphology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of a specific cell surface glycoprotein (CSP) in regulating fibroblast morphology after transformation.
- To determine if supplementing transformed cells with CSP can restore normal cell characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of a major cell surface glycoprotein (CSP) from chick embryo fibroblasts.
- Treatment of transformed cell lines (SV1, L929, and transformed chick fibroblasts) with purified CSP.
- Microscopic analysis to assess changes in cell surface morphology, specifically microvilli and ruffles.
Main Results:
- The study confirmed that CSP levels decrease following cell transformation.
- Treatment with CSP led to a significant reduction in the number of microvilli and marginal ruffles in treated cell lines.
- Restoration of a more normal cell morphology was observed in CSP-treated transformed fibroblasts.
Conclusions:
- CSP plays a crucial role in maintaining normal fibroblast morphology.
- Reintroducing CSP into transformed cells can reverse morphological changes associated with transformation, suggesting therapeutic potential.
