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Rotational motion of monomeric and dimeric immunoglobulin E-receptor complexes

J N Myers1, D Holowka, B Baird

  • 1Department of Chemistry, Baker Laboratory, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853-1301.

Biochemistry
|January 21, 1992
PubMed

Insights

This study investigated the rotational dynamics of immunoglobulin E (IgE) receptors on rat basophilic leukemia cells. Dimeric IgE-receptor complexes interact with membrane components on intact cells, affecting their mobility.

Area of Science:

  • Biophysics
  • Cell Biology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Immunoglobulin E (IgE) receptors play a crucial role in allergic responses.
  • Understanding receptor dynamics is key to deciphering cell signaling pathways.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the rotational dynamics of monomeric and dimeric Fc epsilon RI receptors for IgE.
  • To compare receptor dynamics on living RBL cells versus membrane vesicles.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized time-resolved phosphorescence anisotropy with erythrosin 5'-thiosemicarbazide labeled IgE.
  • Studied receptors on both intact rat basophilic leukemia (RBL) cells and derived membrane vesicles.

Main Results:

  • Monomeric IgE-receptor complexes showed rotational correlation times consistent with free rotation, with a potential immobile fraction on cells.
  • Dimeric IgE-receptor complexes were largely immobile on cells but mobile on vesicles, with increased rotational correlation time.
  • A faster rotational motion component was observed on vesicles, suggesting segmental flexibility within the receptor.

Conclusions:

  • Dimeric IgE-receptor complexes interact with other membrane components on intact cells, unlike on vesicles.
  • These interactions likely influence receptor function and signaling in RBL cells.

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