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v-SNARE-dependent secretion is required for phagocytosis
D J Hackam1, O D Rotstein, C Sjolin
1Division of Cell Biology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1X8 Canada.
Summary
Phagocytosis, the process of engulfing particles by cells, involves an increase in cell surface area due to exocytosis. This exocytosis, mediated by vesicle-soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (vSNARE) proteins, is crucial for particle internalization.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Phagosomes are formed by leukocyte plasma membrane apposition onto microorganisms.
- This process is predicted to decrease phagocyte surface area.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the changes in cell surface area during phagocytosis.
- To determine the role of exocytosis in particle internalization.
Main Methods:
- Observing changes in cell surface area during phagocytosis.
- Using bacterial neurotoxins to inhibit secretory machinery components via microinjection or transfection.
Main Results:
- Phagocytosis was associated with a net increase in cell surface area.
- Inhibition of exocytosis components significantly inhibited phagocytosis.
Conclusions:
- Phagocytosis involves a net increase in cell surface area, indicating concurrent exocytosis.
- Vesicle-soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (vSNARE)-mediated exocytosis is essential for efficient particle internalization during phagocytosis.