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New insights into directed cell migration: characteristics and mechanisms
1Chaire Scientifique Roger Seydoux de la Fondation de France, Centre d'Ecologie Cellulaire, Hôpital de la Salpétrière, Paris, France.
Nouvelle Revue Francaise D'Hematologie
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Cellular migration involves two independent machines: a speed controller and an automatic angle controller. Asymmetric receptor distribution initiates directed cell movement, driven by a linear motor mechanism.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Biophysics
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Directed cell migration is crucial for biological processes.
- Understanding the molecular machinery governing cell movement is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the cellular mechanisms controlling directed cell migration.
- To identify the key components and signaling pathways involved in cell steering and goal-seeking.
Main Methods:
- Investigated migration in granulocytes, fibroblasts, and neural crest cells.
- Analyzed intracellular signals, receptor distribution, and motor functions.
- Examined the cyclic nature of cellular machinery.
Main Results:
- Identified two independent machines: a speed controller (steerer) and an angle controller (automatic controller).
- Discovered that asymmetric distribution of occupied membrane receptors is the initial intracellular signal for directed migration.
- Motile force is generated by a linear motor amplified by the number of occupied receptors.
Conclusions:
- Cellular migration is regulated by distinct, independent control systems for speed and direction.
- Directed migration is initiated by asymmetric receptor occupancy, triggering a feedback-controlled steering mechanism.
- The cellular machinery operates cyclically, involving measurement and response phases, akin to a self-ignition process.