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Changes in membrane fluidity associated with lymphocyte stimulation by succinyl-concanavalin A
Biochimica Et Biophysica Acta
|April 7, 1982
Summary
This study reveals that mitogen stimulation causes rapid and lasting changes in lymphocyte cell membranes. Fluorescence anisotropy measurements show distinct short-term and long-term alterations in membrane dynamics.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Biophysics
- Immunology
Background:
- Cell membrane fluidity is crucial for lymphocyte function.
- Understanding membrane dynamics provides insights into cellular responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate short- and long-term changes in lymphocyte membrane order parameter upon mitogen stimulation.
- To analyze the kinetics of these membrane alterations using time-resolved fluorescence anisotropy.
Main Methods:
- Time-resolved fluorescence anisotropy studies were performed on human peripheral blood lymphocytes.
- Cells were labeled with 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene (DPH).
- Measurements were conducted at temperatures ranging from 4 to 38 degrees C, with and without mitogen stimulation (succinyl-concanavalin A).
Main Results:
- Unstimulated lymphocytes exhibited order parameters of 0.62 at 4°C and 0.44 at 37°C.
- Mitogen stimulation rapidly altered the order parameter, increasing to 0.56 after 2 hours at 37°C.
- Both stimulated and unstimulated cells showed decreased anisotropy over 2-3 days, becoming indistinguishable by day three.
Conclusions:
- Mitogen stimulation induces both immediate and delayed changes in lymphocyte membrane properties.
- These findings highlight the dynamic nature of the cell membrane in response to external stimuli.
- The study provides evidence for significant membrane reordering following mitogenic activation.