MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology' source. Wed, 09 Dec 2009 16:21:28 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2879900&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19815176%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Field MC, Lumb JH, Adung'a VO, Jones NG, Engstler M Intracellular trafficking is a major mechanism contributing to maintenance of the surface composition in most eukaryotic cells. In the case of unicellular eukaryotic pathogens, the surface also represents the host-parasite interface. Therefore, the parasite surface is both a critical player in immune recognition, from the host's point of view, or in immune evasion, from the pathogen's point. The African trypanosomes are remarkable in dwelling throughout their period in the mammalian host within the bloodstream and tissue spaces, and have evolved several mechanisms that facilitate chronic infection. Here, we discuss current understanding of intracellular trafficking pathways of trypanosomes, and relate these processes to immun... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2879900 Sat, 10 Oct 2009 21:22:02 +0100 2879900 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2879899&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19815177%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Johnstone S, Isakson B, Locke D Intercellular channels formed by connexin proteins play a pivotal role in the direct movement of ions and larger cytoplasmic solutes between vascular endothelial cells, between vascular smooth muscle cells, and between endothelial and smooth muscle cells. Multiple genetic and epigenetic factors modulate connexin expression levels and/or channel function, including cell-type-independent and cell-type-specific transcription factors, posttranslational modifications, and localized membrane targeting. Additionally, differences in protein-protein interactions, including those between connexins, significantly contribute to both vascular homeostasis and disease progression. The biophysical properties of the connexin channels identified in the vasculatur... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2879899 Sat, 10 Oct 2009 21:22:02 +0100 2879899 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2879898&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19815178%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Atallah J, Larsen E The quest to understand the relationship between an organism's DNA sequence and three-dimensional form is an interdisciplinary task, integrating diverse fields of the life sciences. The relevance of the metaphor of a genotype-phenotype map is explored from a developmental perspective, in light of the recent concept of a "molecular toolkit" of protein-coding genes, and the widespread view that analyzing the logic and mechanics of gene regulation at multiple levels is key to explaining how morphology is genetically encoded. We discuss the challenges of decoding genomes despite variable genetic backgrounds, the dynamically changing physical and molecular contexts of the internal environment during development, and the impact of external forces on morphogenesis... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2879898 Sat, 10 Oct 2009 21:22:02 +0100 2879898 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2879897&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19815179%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Barral Y, Liakopoulos D The mitotic spindle is mostly perceived as a symmetric structure. However, in many cell divisions, the two poles of the spindle organize asters with different dynamics, associate with different biomolecules or subcellular domains, and perform different functions. In this chapter, we describe some of the most prominent examples of spindle asymmetry. These are encountered during cell-cycle progression in budding and fission yeast and during asymmetric cell divisions of stem cells and embryos. We analyze the molecular mechanisms that lead to generation of spindle asymmetry and discuss the importance of spindle-pole differentiation for the correct outcome of cell division. PMID: 19815179 [PubMed - in process] (Source: International Review of Cell and Mo... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2879897 Sat, 10 Oct 2009 21:22:02 +0100 2879897 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2879896&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19815180%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Winklbauer R The amphibian gastrula can be regarded as a single coherent tissue which folds and distorts itself in a reproducible pattern to establish the embryonic germ layers. It is held together by cadherins which provide the flexible adhesion required for the massive cell rearrangements that accompany gastrulation. Cadherin expression and adhesiveness increase as one goes from the vegetal cell mass through the anterior mesendoderm to the chordamesoderm, and then decrease again slightly in the ectoderm. Together with a basic random component of cell motility, this flexible, differentially expressed adhesiveness generates surface and interfacial tension effects which, in principle, can exert strong forces. However, conclusive evidence for an in vivo role of differential adhe... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2879896 Sat, 10 Oct 2009 21:22:02 +0100 2879896 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2879895&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19815181%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Chieffi P, Franco R, Portella G Although testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are relatively uncommon, they are particularly important as they tend to affect children and young men, representing the most common tumor in male aged from 20 to 40years. TGCTs are a heterogeneous group of tumors, with specific peculiarities reflecting on epidemiologic distribution and clinic-pathological features. TGCTs show a high-cure rates in both seminomas and nonseminomas and represent the model of a curable neoplasia: sensitive serum tumor markers, accurate prognostic classification, contribute to a high effectiveness of cancer therapy. However, up to 30% of patients diagnosed with metastatic nonseminomas do not achieve a durable remission, and in metastatic teratomas cisplatin-based treatment... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2879895 Sat, 10 Oct 2009 21:22:02 +0100 2879895 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2879894&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19815182%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Wong EW, Cheng CY In mammalian testes, extensive junction restructuring takes place in the seminiferous epithelium at the Sertoli-Sertoli and Sertoli-germ cell interface to facilitate the different cellular events of spermatogenesis, such as mitosis, meiosis, spermiogenesis, and spermiation. Recent studies in the field have shown that Rho GTPases and polarity proteins play significant roles in the events of cell-cell interactions. Furthermore, Rho GTPases, such as Cdc42, are working in concert with polarity proteins in regulating cell polarization and cell adhesion at both the blood-testis barrier (BTB) and apical ectoplasmic specialization (apical ES) in the testis of adult rats. In this chapter, we briefly summarize recent findings on the latest status of research and develo... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2879894 Sat, 10 Oct 2009 21:22:02 +0100 2879894 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2824939&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19766966%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Dubash AD, Menold MM, Samson T, Boulter E, García-Mata R, Doughman R, Burridge K Focal adhesions have been intensely studied ever since their discovery in 1971. The last three decades have seen major advances in understanding the structure of focal adhesions and the functions they serve in cellular adhesion, migration, and other biological processes. In this chapter, we begin with a historical perspective of focal adhesions, provide an overview of focal adhesion biology, and highlight recent major advances in the field. Specifically, we review the different types of matrix adhesions and the role different Rho GTPases play in their formation. We discuss the relative contributions of integrin and syndecan adhesion receptors to the formation of focal adhesions. We also focus... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2824939 Thu, 24 Sep 2009 03:06:02 +0100 2824939 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2824938&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19766967%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Mallinson J, Meissner J, Chang KC Calcineurin, also known as protein phosphatase 2B (PP2B), is a calcium-calmodulin-dependent phosphatase. It couples intracellular calcium to dephosphorylate selected substrates resulting in diverse biological consequences depending on cell type. In mammals, calcineurin's functions include neuronal growth, development of cardiac valves and hypertrophy, activation of lymphocytes, and the regulation of ion channels and enzymes. This chapter focuses on the key roles of calcineurin in skeletal muscle differentiation, regeneration, and fiber type conversion to an oxidative state, all of which are crucial to muscle development, metabolism, and functional adaptations. It seeks to integrate the current knowledge of calcineurin signaling in skeletal mus... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2824938 Thu, 24 Sep 2009 03:06:02 +0100 2824938 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2824937&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19766968%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Oda Y, Higaki T, Hasezawa S, Kutsuna N The plant vacuole is a multifunctional organelle and is essential for plant development and growth. The most distinctive feature of the plant vacuole is its size, which usually occupies over 80-90% of the cell volume in well-developed somatic cells, and is therefore highly involved in cell growth and plant body size. Recent progress in the visualization of the vacuole, together with developments in image analysis, has revealed the highly organized and complex morphology of the vacuole, as well as its dynamics. The plant vacuolar membrane (VM) forms not only a typically large vacuole but also other structures, such as tubular structures, transvacuolar strands, bulbs, and sheets. In higher plant cells, actin microfilaments are mainly locate... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2824937 Thu, 24 Sep 2009 03:06:02 +0100 2824937 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2824936&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19766969%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Popescu C, Höcker H Hair is a complex "cornified" multicellular tissue composed of cuticle and cortex cells mechanically acting as a whole. The cuticle cells overlap and cortex cells interdigitate, all cells being composed of different morphological elements and separated by the cell membrane complex (CMC). The CMC and the morphological elements of the cortex cells, the macrofibrils, composed of microfibrils or intermediate filaments (IFs), and the intermacrofibrillar and intermicrofibrillar cement or the amorphous matrix material determine the mechanical properties of hair. The IFs consist of alpha-keratin molecules being arranged in a sophisticated way of two parallel monomers and antiparallel and shifted dimers rationalized by the amino acid composition and sequence. T... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2824936 Thu, 24 Sep 2009 03:06:02 +0100 2824936 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2824935&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19766970%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Meagher RB, Kandasamy MK, McKinney EC, Roy E The nuclear actin-related proteins (ARPs) share overall structure and low-level sequence homology with conventional actin. They are indispensable subunits of macromolecular machines that control chromatin remodeling and modification leading to dynamic changes in DNA structure, transcription, and DNA repair. Cellular, genetic, and biochemical studies suggest that the nuclear ARPs are essential to the epigenetic control of the cell cycle and cell proliferation in all eukaryotes, while in plants and animals they also exert epigenetic controls over most stages of multicellular development including organ initiation, the switch to reproductive development, and senescence and programmed cell death. A theme emerging from plants and animals... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2824935 Thu, 24 Sep 2009 03:06:02 +0100 2824935 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2824934&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19766971%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Svetlova MP, Solovjeva LV, Tomilin NV New methods for detecting DNA damage and repair are reviewed and their potential significance is discussed. These include methods based on analysis of DNA damage-induced chromatin modifications, cytological detection of DNA repair synthesis, damage-induced immobilization of repair proteins and living cell imaging. Special attention is paid to current methods of detection of modifications of histones and other proteins associated with DNA double-strand breaks which represent most dangerous genome damage. New methods of analysis of DNA damage and repair may be useful in biodosimetry, early cancer diagnostics and in the analysis of efficiency of cancer radiation therapy and chemotherapy. PMID: 19766971 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Inter... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2824934 Thu, 24 Sep 2009 03:06:02 +0100 2824934 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2588650&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19584010%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Bishopp A, Help H, Helariutta Y The cytokinin class of phytohormones regulates division and differentiation of plant cells. They are perceived and signaled by a phosphorelay mechanism similar to those observed in prokaryotes. Research into the components of phosphorelay had previously been marred by genetic redundancy. However, recent studies have addressed this with the creation of high-order mutants. In addition, several new elements regulating cytokinin signaling have been identified. This has uncovered many roles in diverse developmental and physiological processes. In this review, we look at these processes specifically in the context of root development. We focus on the formation and maintenance of the root apical meristem, primary and secondary vascular development, lat... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2588650 Fri, 10 Jul 2009 15:16:02 +0100 2588650 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2588649&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19584011%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Bakota L, Brandt R The development of vital fluorescent synthetic dyes and the generation of a myriad of genetically encoded fluorescent proteins permit sensitive visualization of a broad range of dynamic features in living cells with fluorescence microscopy. Many neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Creutzfeld-Jacob disease (CJD), Huntington's disease (HD), multiple sclerosis (MS), and Parkinson's disease (PD) share common aspects on a cellular level that are associated with a change in the dynamic behavior of the whole cell, cell compartments, or single proteins. These include disturbances of transport mechanisms or protein turnover, missorting and aggregation of proteins, and changes in the structural plasticity o... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2588649 Fri, 10 Jul 2009 15:16:02 +0100 2588649 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2588648&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19584012%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lindahl U, Li JP Heparan sulfate (HS) proteoglycans at cell surfaces and in the extracellular matrix of most animal tissues are essential in development and homeostasis, and variously implicated in disease processes. Functions of HS polysaccharide chains depend on ionic interactions with a variety of proteins including growth factors and their receptors. Negatively charged sulfate and carboxylate groups are arranged in various types of domains, generated through strictly regulated biosynthetic reactions and with enormous potential for structural variability. The level of specificity of HS-protein interactions is assessed through binding experiments in vitro using saccharides of defined composition, signaling assays in cell culture, and targeted disruption of genes for biosynth... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2588648 Fri, 10 Jul 2009 15:16:02 +0100 2588648 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2588647&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19584013%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Sorrell JM, Caplan AI The capacity of fibroblasts to produce and organize the extracellular matrix and to communicate with other cells makes them a central component of tissue biology. Even so, fibroblasts remain a somewhat enigmatic population. Our inability to fully comprehend these cells is in large part due to the paucity of unique cellular markers and to their pervasive diversity. Much of our understanding of fibroblast diversity has evolved from studies where subpopulations of these cells have been produced without resorting to cell surface markers. In this regard, cloning and mechanical separation of tissues prior to establishing cultures has provided multiple subpopulations. Nonetheless, in isolated situations, the expression or lack of expression of Thy-1/CD90 has bee... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2588647 Fri, 10 Jul 2009 15:16:02 +0100 2588647 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2588646&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19584014%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Miri K, Varmuza S Genomic imprinting is an epigenetic mechanism that silences one parental allele of a small subset of genes. Many imprinted genes exhibit this property only in extraembryonic tissues-placenta and yolk sac. This has led to the idea that imprinting in mammals coevolved with some aspect of placentation. Nevertheless, many studies of imprinting have ignored the extraembryonic tissues, the yolk sac and its precursor, the primitive endoderm, in particular. The primitive endoderm is involved in very early signaling events during a critical stage in development, gastrulation, during which body plan axes and head process neuroectoderm are established. Improper signaling from primitive endoderm as a result of abnormal expression of imprinted genes has the capacity to ef... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2588646 Fri, 10 Jul 2009 15:16:02 +0100 2588646 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2588645&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19584015%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Yazaki K, Shitan N, Sugiyama A, Takanashi K ATP-binding cassette (ABC) proteins constitute a large and diverse superfamily of membrane-bound and soluble proteins, which are involved in a wide range of biological processes in all organisms from prokaryotes to eukaryotes. Genome analyses of model plants, for example, Arabidopsis and rice, have revealed that plants have more than double numbers of this family member in their genomes compared to animals and insects. In recent years, various biochemical and physiological functions of ABC proteins in plants have been reported. Some are relevant for the defense mechanisms to biotic and abiotic stresses, whereas others are involved in the basic functions necessary for maintaining the plant life. Here, we provide an updated inventory o... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2588645 Fri, 10 Jul 2009 15:16:02 +0100 2588645 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2588644&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19584016%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Higashi-Fujime S, Nakamura A Chara myosin is a class XI plant myosin in green algae Chara corallina and responsible for fast cytoplasmic streaming. The Chara myosin exhibits the fastest sliding movement of F-actin at 60 mum/s as observed so far, 10-fold of the shortening speed of muscle. It has some distinct properties differing from those of muscle myosin. Although knowledge about Chara myosin is very limited at present, we have tried to elucidate functional bases of its characteristics by comparing with those of other myosins. In particular, we have built the putative atomic model of Chara myosin by using the homology-based modeling system and databases. Based on the putative structure of Chara myosin obtained, we have analyzed the relationship between structure and function... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2588644 Fri, 10 Jul 2009 15:16:02 +0100 2588644 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2526402&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19349035%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lin JJ, Li Y, Eppinga RD, Wang Q, Jin JP Caldesmon (CaD) is a multimodular protein that regulates contractility and actin cytoskeleton remodeling in smooth muscle and nonmuscle cells. A single gene (CALD1) encodes high molecular mass CaD (h-CaD) and low molecular mass CaD (l-CaD) by alternative splicings. The h-CaD exclusively expresses in smooth muscle, whereas the l-CaD ubiquitously expresses in all cell types except skeletal muscle. The h-CaD/l-CaD ratio could be a marker for monitoring differentiating and pathological states of smooth muscles. The l-CaD associates with stress fibers and membrane ruffles in nonmuscle cells and with the actin core of podosomes in highly motile/invasive cells. Together with tropomyosin, CaD stabilizes actin filaments and inhibits actin-tropom... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2526402 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 11:35:02 +0100 2526402 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2526401&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19349036%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Maffucci JA, Gore AC The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis undergoes a number of changes throughout the reproductive life cycle that are responsible for the development, puberty, adulthood, and senescence of reproductive systems. This natural progression is dictated by the neural network controlling the hypothalamus including the cells that synthesize and release gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and their regulatory neurotransmitters. Glutamate and GABA are the primary excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters in the central nervous system, and as such contribute a great deal to modulating this axis throughout the lifetime via their actions on receptors in the hypothalamus, both directly on GnRH neurons as well as indirectly through other hypothalamic neural net... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2526401 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 11:35:02 +0100 2526401 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2526400&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19349037%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Martín-Belmonte F, Rodríguez-Fraticelli AE Epithelia coordinate the polarity of individual cells, in space and time, with surrounding cells and the extracellular matrix (ECM) to organize three-dimensional structures that shape tissues and organs. One of the most important features of epithelial polarization is the asymmetric distribution of membrane surfaces with the apical surface facing a lumen or outside of the organism, and a basolateral surface facing other cells and ECM. This chapter discuss the processes required for the acquisition of the asymmetric distribution of membrane surfaces during morphogenesis, which include trafficking pathways, vesicle-sorting machineries, formation of junctional and polarity complexes, and the establishment of signaling networks.... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2526400 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 11:35:02 +0100 2526400 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2526397&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19349038%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Saito C, Ueda T In all eukaryotic cells, vesicular trafficking is crucial for maintaining cellular and organelle functions. RABs and SNAREs play key roles in vesicle/organelle identity and exchange. Budding yeast genetics and mammalian cell biochemistry were the most effective approaches for investigating molecular mechanisms underlying vesicular trafficking and remain important in exploring new horizons. The field of vesicular trafficking attracted plant biologists in the early 1990s. Today, this field continues to stimulate a wide range of research. This review starts with some history of RAB and SNARE research in yeast and mammals and introduces a widely accepted general model. Then we summarize recent reports regarding plant RABs and SNAREs, focusing on functional diversit... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2526397 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 11:35:02 +0100 2526397 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2526396&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19349039%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Barnekow A, Thyrock A, Kessler D The Ras superfamily consists of over 150 low molecular weight proteins that cycle between an inactive guanosine diphosphate (GDP)-bound state and an active guanosine triphosphate (GTP)-bound state. They are involved in a variety of signal transduction pathways that regulate cell growth, intracellular trafficking, cell migration, and apoptosis. Several methods have been devised to detect and characterize the interacting partners of small GTPases with the aim of better understanding their physiological function in normal cells and tumor cells. The Rab (Ras analog in brain) proteins form the largest family within the Ras superfamily. Rab proteins regulate vesicular trafficking pathways, behaving as membrane-associated molecular switches. The guani... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2526396 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 11:35:02 +0100 2526396 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2526395&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19349040%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Almsherqi ZA, Landh T, Kohlwein SD, Deng Y Biological membranes are among the most fascinating assemblies of biomolecules: a bilayer less than 10 nm thick, composed of rather small lipid molecules that are held together simply by noncovalent forces, defines the cell and discriminates between "inside" and "outside", survival, and death. Intracellular compartmentalization-governed by biomembranes as well-is a characteristic feature of eukaryotic cells, which allows them to fulfill multiple and highly specialized anabolic and catabolic functions in strictly controlled environments. Although cellular membranes are generally visualized as flat sheets or closely folded isolated objects, multiple observations also demonstrate that membranes may fold into "unusual", highly organized s... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2526395 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 11:35:02 +0100 2526395 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2526394&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19491051%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Caldieri G, Ayala I, Attanasio F, Buccione R The controlled degradation of the extracellular matrix is crucial in physiological and pathological cell invasion alike. In vitro, degradation occurs at specific sites where invasive cells make contact with the extracellular matrix via specialized plasma membrane protrusions termed invadopodia. Considerable progress has been made in recent years toward understanding the basic molecular components and their ultrastructural features; generating substantial interest in invadopodia as a paradigm to study the complex interactions between the intracellular trafficking, signal transduction, and cytoskeleton regulation machineries. The next level will be to understand whether they may also represent valid biological targets to help advance ... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2526394 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 11:35:02 +0100 2526394 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2526393&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19491052%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Fischer WB, Krüger J Channel-forming proteins are found in a number of viral genomes. In some cases, their role in the viral life cycle is well understood, in some cases it needs still to be elucidated. A common theme is that their mode of action involves a change of electrochemical or proton gradient across the lipid membrane which modulates the viral or cellular activity. Blocking these proteins can be a suitable therapeutic strategy as for some viruses this may be "lethal." Besides the many biological relevant questions still to be answered, there are also many open questions concerning the biophysical side as well as structural information and the mechanism of function on a molecular level. The immanent biophysical issues are addressed and the work in the field is sum... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2526393 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 11:35:02 +0100 2526393 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2526392&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19491053%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Karlsson C, Lindahl A The different stages of cartilage development are well described but no transcription factor capable of specifically inducing differentiation to articular cartilage has been identified and little is known about the molecular mechanisms regulating cartilage development. Notch signaling is an evolutionarily conserved pathway taking part in many developmental and cell type specification processes. It has been demonstrated that markers for Notch signaling are differentially expressed during cartilage development and there is evidence for their functional role during this process. Notch signaling has further been implicated in osteoarthritis and Notch1 has been suggested as a marker for chondrogenic progenitor cells. This review summarizes the current knowledg... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2526392 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 11:35:02 +0100 2526392 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2526391&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19491054%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ribatti D, Crivellato E Mast cells (MCs) were first described by Paul Ehrlich (Beiträge zur Theorie und Praxis der Histologischen Färbung, Thesis, Leipzig University, 1878). They have long been implicated in the pathogenesis of allergic reactions and protective responses to parasites. However, their functional role has been found to be complex and multifarious. MCs are also involved in various cell-mediated immune reactions and found in tissues from multiple disease sites, and as a component of the host reaction to bacteria, parasite, and even virus infections. They also participate in angiogenic and tissue repair processes after injury. The importance of a possible functional link between chronic inflammation and cancer has long been recognized. As most tumors conta... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2526391 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 11:35:02 +0100 2526391 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2526390&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19491055%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Vemuganti GK, Fatima A, Madhira SL, Basti S, Sangwan VS Corneal opacification due to limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) is an important cause for ocular morbidity, resulting from a number of intrinsic and extrinsic factors. While the extrinsic factors include conditions such as chemical or thermal injuries, intrinsic include dysfunction, or reduction in the number of stem cells either due to pathological changes in autoimmune diseases or secondary to certain clinical conditions such as diabetes, dry eye disorders, or multiple previous eye surgeries. LSCD is characterized by a classic triad of signs-conjunctivalization, neovascularization and decrease in vision. With the increasing knowledge of limbal stem cells, the treatment of this condition has evolved from simple debrideme... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2526390 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 11:35:02 +0100 2526390 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2526389&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19491056%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Stenzinger A, Schreiner D, Koch P, Hofer HW, Wimmer M This chapter examines the current state of knowledge about the expression profile, as well as biochemical properties and biological functions of the evolutionarily conserved protein PTPIP51. PTPIP51 is apparently expressed in splice variants and shows a particularly high expression in epithelia, skeletal muscle, placenta, and germ cells, as well as during mammalian development and in cancer. PTPIP51 is an in vitro substrate of Src- and protein kinase A, the PTP1B/TCPTP protein tyrosine phosphatases and interacts with 14-3-3 proteins, the Nuf2 kinetochore protein, the ninein-interacting CGI-99 protein, diacylglycerol kinase alpha, and also with itself forming dimers and trimers. Although the precise cellular function remains... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2526389 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 11:35:02 +0100 2526389 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2235438&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19215902%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ahmed AU, Fisher PR A growing amount of evidence suggests that the cytosolic translation of nuclear-encoded mitochondrial proteins and their subsequent import into mitochondria are tightly coupled in a process termed cotranslational import. In addition to the original posttranslational view of mitochondrial protein import, early literature also provides both in vitro and in vivo experimental evidence supporting the simultaneous existence of a cotranslational protein-import mechanism in mitochondria. Recent investigations have started to reveal the cotranslational import mechanism which is initiated by transporting either a translation complex or a translationally competent mRNA encoding a mitochondrial protein to the mitochondrial surface. The intracellular localization of mRN... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2235438 Thu, 05 Mar 2009 13:34:29 +0100 2235438 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2235437&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19215904%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Parat MO Caveolae are specialized plasma membrane subdomains visualized more than 50 years ago as cave-like invaginations at the cell surface. They are rich in cholesterol, glycosphingolipids, and lipid-anchored proteins. Their signaling and trafficking capabilities influence multiple cellular processes, and are believed to require caveolin-1, a major protein component of caveolae in most cell types. Today the structure and functions of caveolae are still the objects of intense research. Caveolin-1 is not anymore the only protein known to be required for caveolae formation, and functions for caveolin-1 outside of caveolae are being unveiled. Studying the phenotype of mice lacking caveolae has largely confirmed the roles attributed to this organelle and its defining protein. Th... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2235437 Thu, 05 Mar 2009 13:34:29 +0100 2235437 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2235436&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19215905%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Plattner H, Sehring IM, Schilde C, Ladenburger EM Most data on the effects of drugs as inhibitors, modulators, or stimulators have been collected with higher eukaryotic, mainly mammalian cells. Although in cell biological experiments with lower eukaryotes, including ciliates, the same drugs have frequently been applied, many results remained questionable for several reasons. Most drugs had to be used in unusually high concentrations. Moreover, drug effects have rarely been verified at the biochemical or molecular level. Data steadily emerging from genomics of ciliates, mainly Paramecium tetraurelia and Tetrahymena thermophila, show that drug-binding sites have only occasionally been conserved during evolution. They may vary or be totally absent in ciliate orthologs or specific... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2235436 Thu, 05 Mar 2009 13:34:29 +0100 2235436 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2235435&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19215908%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Gassama-Diagne A, Payrastre B Polarity is a prerequisite for proper development and function of epithelia in metazoa. The major feature of polarized epithelial cells is the presence of specialized domains with asymmetric distribution of macromolecular contents including proteins and lipids. The apical domain is involved in exchange with the organ lumen, and the basolateral membrane maintains contact with neighboring cells and the underlying extracellular matrix. The two domains are separated by tight junctions, which act as a diffusion barrier to prevent free mixing of domain-specific proteins and lipids. Extensive studies have shed light on the numerous protein families involved in cell polarization. However, many questions still remain regarding the molecular mechanisms of p... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2235435 Thu, 05 Mar 2009 13:34:29 +0100 2235435 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2188677&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19215901%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Eissenberg JC, Reuter G Near the end of their 1990 historical perspective article "60 Years of Mystery," Spradling and Karpen (1990) observe: "Recent progress in understanding variegation at the molecular level has encouraged some workers to conclude that the heterochromatization model is essentially correct and that position-effect variegation can now join the mainstream of molecular biology." In the 18 years since those words were written, heterochromatin and its associated position effects have indeed joined the mainstream of molecular biology. Here, we review the findings that led to our current understanding of heterochromatin formation in Drosophila and the mechanistic insights into heterochromatin structural and functional properties gained through molecular genetics an... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2188677 Sun, 15 Feb 2009 21:32:31 +0100 2188677 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2188676&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19215902%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ahmed AU, Fisher PR A growing amount of evidence suggests that the cytosolic translation of nuclear-encoded mitochondrial proteins and their subsequent import into mitochondria are tightly coupled in a process termed cotranslational import. In addition to the original posttranslational view of mitochondrial protein import, early literature also provides both in vitro and in vivo experimental evidence supporting the simultaneous existence of a cotranslational protein-import mechanism in mitochondria. Recent investigations have started to reveal the cotranslational import mechanism which is initiated by transporting either a translation complex or a translationally competent mRNA encoding a mitochondrial protein to the mitochondrial surface. The intracellular localization of mRN... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2188676 Sun, 15 Feb 2009 21:32:31 +0100 2188676 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2188675&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19215903%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Wang X, Schröder HC, Müller WE Only 13 years after realizing, during a repair of a telegraph cable pulled out from the deep sea, that the depth of the ocean is plentifully populated with a highly diverse fauna and flora, the Challenger expedition (1873-1876) treasured up a rich collection of vitreous sponges (Hexactinellida). They had been described by Schulze and represent the phylogenetically oldest class of siliceous sponges (phylum Porifera); they are eye-catching because of their distinct body plan, which relies on a filigree skeleton. It is constructed by an array of morphologically determined elements, the spicules. Soon after, during the German Deep Sea Expedition "Valdivia" (1898-1899), Schulze could describe the largest siliceous hexactinellid sponge on Ear... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2188675 Sun, 15 Feb 2009 21:32:31 +0100 2188675 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2188674&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19215904%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Parat MO Caveolae are specialized plasma membrane subdomains visualized more than 50 years ago as cave-like invaginations at the cell surface. They are rich in cholesterol, glycosphingolipids, and lipid-anchored proteins. Their signaling and trafficking capabilities influence multiple cellular processes, and are believed to require caveolin-1, a major protein component of caveolae in most cell types. Today the structure and functions of caveolae are still the objects of intense research. Caveolin-1 is not anymore the only protein known to be required for caveolae formation, and functions for caveolin-1 outside of caveolae are being unveiled. Studying the phenotype of mice lacking caveolae has largely confirmed the roles attributed to this organelle and its defining protein. Th... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2188674 Sun, 15 Feb 2009 21:32:31 +0100 2188674 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2188673&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19215905%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Plattner H, Sehring IM, Schilde C, Ladenburger EM Most data on the effects of drugs as inhibitors, modulators, or stimulators have been collected with higher eukaryotic, mainly mammalian cells. Although in cell biological experiments with lower eukaryotes, including ciliates, the same drugs have frequently been applied, many results remained questionable for several reasons. Most drugs had to be used in unusually high concentrations. Moreover, drug effects have rarely been verified at the biochemical or molecular level. Data steadily emerging from genomics of ciliates, mainly Paramecium tetraurelia and Tetrahymena thermophila, show that drug-binding sites have only occasionally been conserved during evolution. They may vary or be totally absent in ciliate orthologs or specific... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2188673 Sun, 15 Feb 2009 21:32:31 +0100 2188673 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2188672&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19215906%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Hofmann WA Actin is a highly conserved protein and one of the major components of the cytoplasm and the nucleus in eukaryotic cells. In the nucleus, actin is involved in a variety of nuclear processes that include transcription and transcription regulation, RNA processing and export, intranuclear movement, and structure maintenance. Recent advances in the field of nuclear actin have established that functions of actin in the nucleus are versatile, complex, and interconnected. It also has become increasingly evident that the cytoplasmic and nuclear pools of actin are functionally linked. However, while the biological significance of nuclear actin has become clear, we are only beginning to understand the mechanisms that lie behind the regulation of nuclear actin. This review pro... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2188672 Sun, 15 Feb 2009 21:32:31 +0100 2188672 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2188671&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19215907%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kim KI, Baek SH Small ubiquitin-like modifiers (SUMOs) mediate a variety of cellular functions of protein targets mainly in the nucleus but in other cellular compartments as well, and thereby participate in maintaining cellular homeostasis. SUMO system plays important roles in transcriptional regulation, DNA damage responses, maintaining genome integrity, and signaling pathways. Thus, in some cases, loss of regulated control on SUMOylation/deSUMOylation processes causes a defect in maintaining homeostasis and hence gives a cue to cancer development and progression. Furthermore, recent studies have revealed that SUMO system is involved in cancer metastasis. In this review, we will summarize the possible role of SUMO system in cancer development, progression, and metastasis and ... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2188671 Sun, 15 Feb 2009 21:32:31 +0100 2188671 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2188670&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19215908%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Gassama-Diagne A, Payrastre B Polarity is a prerequisite for proper development and function of epithelia in metazoa. The major feature of polarized epithelial cells is the presence of specialized domains with asymmetric distribution of macromolecular contents including proteins and lipids. The apical domain is involved in exchange with the organ lumen, and the basolateral membrane maintains contact with neighboring cells and the underlying extracellular matrix. The two domains are separated by tight junctions, which act as a diffusion barrier to prevent free mixing of domain-specific proteins and lipids. Extensive studies have shed light on the numerous protein families involved in cell polarization. However, many questions still remain regarding the molecular mechanisms of p... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2188670 Sun, 15 Feb 2009 21:32:31 +0100 2188670 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2130009&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19121815%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Aspenström P The Pombe Cdc15 Homology (PCH) proteins have emerged in many species as important coordinators of signaling pathways that regulate actomyosin assembly and membrane dynamics. The hallmark of the PCH proteins is the presence of a Fes/CIP4 homology-Bin/Amphiphysin/Rvsp (F-BAR) domain; therefore they are commonly referred to as F-BAR proteins. The prototype F-BAR protein, Cdc15p of Schizosaccharomyces pombe, has a role in the formation of the contractile actomyosin ring during cytokinesis. Vertebrate F-BAR proteins have an established role in binding phospholipids and they participate in membrane deformations, for instance, during the internalization of transmembrane receptors. This way the F-BAR proteins will function as linkers between the actin polymerization ... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2130009 Sat, 24 Jan 2009 16:07:21 +0100 2130009 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2130008&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19121816%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Cerovic V, McDonald V, Nassar MA, Paulin SM, Macpherson GG, Milling SW Dendritic cells (DCs) play a critical key role in the initiation of immune responses to pathogens. Paradoxically, they also prevent potentially damaging immune responses being directed against the multitude of harmless antigens, to which the body is exposed daily. These roles are particularly important in the intestine, where only a single layer of epithelial cells provides a barrier against billions of commensal microorganisms, pathogens, and food antigens, over a huge surface area. In the intestine, therefore, DCs are required to perform their dual roles very efficiently to protect the body from the dual threats of invading pathogens and unwanted inflammatory reactions. In this review, we first describe t... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2130008 Sat, 24 Jan 2009 16:07:21 +0100 2130008 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2130007&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19121817%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Louvet E, Percipalle P Recent years have witnessed a new turn in the field of gene expression regulation. Actin and an ever-growing family of actin-associated proteins have been accepted as members of the nuclear crew, regulating eukaryotic gene transcription. In complex with heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins and certain myosin species, actin has been shown to be an important regulator in RNA polymerase II transcription. Furthermore, actin-based molecular motors are believed to facilitate RNA polymerase I transcription and possibly downstream events during rRNA biogenesis. Probably these findings represent the tip of the iceberg of a rapidly expanding area within the functional architecture of the cell nucleus. Further studies will contribute to clarify how actin mediat... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2130007 Sat, 24 Jan 2009 16:07:21 +0100 2130007 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2130006&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19121818%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Tharun S The eukaryotic Lsm proteins belong to the large family of Sm-like proteins, which includes members from all organisms ranging from archaebacteria to humans. The Sm and Lsm proteins typically exist as hexameric or heptameric complexes in vivo and carry out RNA-related functions. Multiple complexes made up of different combinations of Sm and Lsm proteins are known in eukaryotes and these complexes are involved in a variety of functions such as mRNA decay in the cytoplasm, mRNA and pre-mRNA decay in the nucleus, pre-mRNA splicing, replication dependent histone mRNA 3'-end processing, etc. While most Lsm proteins function in the form of heteromeric complexes that include other Lsm proteins, some Lsm proteins are also known that do not behave in that manner. Abnormal expre... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2130006 Sat, 24 Jan 2009 16:07:21 +0100 2130006 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2130005&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19121819%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Titorenko VI, Rachubinski RA Recent studies have provided evidence that peroxisomes constitute a multicompartmental endomembrane system. The system begins to form with the targeting of certain peroxisomal membrane proteins to the ER and their exit from the ER via preperoxisomal carriers. These carriers undergo a multistep maturation into metabolically active peroxisomes containing the entire complement of peroxisomal membrane and matrix proteins. At each step, the import of a subset of proteins and the uptake of certain membrane lipids result in the formation of a distinct, more mature compartment of the peroxisomal endomembrane system. Individual peroxisomal compartments proliferate by undergoing one or several rounds of division. Herein, we discuss various strategies that ev... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2130005 Sat, 24 Jan 2009 16:07:21 +0100 2130005 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2130004&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19121820%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Aspengren S, Hedberg D, Sköld HN, Wallin M Pigment cells of lower vertebrates provide an excellent model to study organelle transport as they specialize in the translocation of pigment granules in response to defined chemical cues. This review will focus on the well-studied melanophore/melanocyte systems in fish, amphibians, and mammals. We will describe the roles of melanin, melanophores, and melanocytes in animals, current views on how the three motor proteins dynein, kinesin, and myosin-V are involved in melanosome transport along microtubules and actin filaments, and how signal transduction pathways regulate the activities of the motors to achieve aggregation and dispersion of melanosomes. We will also describe how melanosomes are transferred to surrounding skin cells... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2130004 Sat, 24 Jan 2009 16:07:21 +0100 2130004 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2130003&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19121821%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lasiecka ZM, Yap CC, Vakulenko M, Winckler B Many membrane proteins localize to restricted domains in neurons, such as axons, dendrites, synapses, or axon initial segments. The exquisite subcellular compartmentalization of adhesion molecules, growth factor receptors, signaling receptors, voltage-gated and ligand-gated channels, and others underlies the complex functioning of neurons and ultimately vectorial propagation of signaling in neuronal circuits. This chapter discusses the cellular mechanisms for compartmentalizing the neuronal plasma membrane. Among the mechanisms contributing to protein segregation in the membrane are sorting and targeting in the Golgi/TGN, endocytosis, recycling, and degradation, and control of membrane protein diffusion. The molecular underpinnings ... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2130003 Sat, 24 Jan 2009 16:07:21 +0100 2130003 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2054535&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19081543%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Vergés M Retromer is an evolutionary conserved protein complex required for endosome-to-Golgi retrieval of lysosomal hydrolases' receptors. A dimer of two sorting nexins-typically, SNX1 and/or SNX2-deforms the membrane and thus cooperates with retromer to ensure cargo sorting. Research in various model organisms indicates that retromer participates in sorting of additional molecules whose proper transport has important repercussions in development and disease. The role of retromer as well as SNXs in endosomal protein (re)cycling and protein targeting to specialized plasma membrane domains in polarized cells adds further complexity and has implications in growth control, the establishment of developmental patterns, cell adhesion, and migration. This chapter will discuss th... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2054535 Sat, 20 Dec 2008 19:24:31 +0100 2054535 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2042455&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19081533%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Dussurget O Listeria monocytogenes is the causative agent of human listeriosis, a potentially fatal foodborne infection. Clinical manifestations range from febrile gastroenteritis to more severe invasive forms including meningitis, encephalitis, abortions, and perinatal infections. This Gram-positive facultative intracellular pathogen has evolved multiple strategies to face extracellular innate defense mechanisms of the host and to invade and multiply intracellularly within macrophages and nonphagocytic cells. This chapter provides an updated panorama of recent advances in the characterization of L. monocytogenes virulence determinants in the postgenomic era. PMID: 19081533 [PubMed - in process] (Source: International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology) International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2042455 Wed, 17 Dec 2008 19:50:37 +0100 2042455 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2042454&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19081534%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Terashima H, Kojima S, Homma M Bacterial flagella are filamentous organelles that drive cell locomotion. They thrust cells in liquids (swimming) or on surfaces (swarming) so that cells can move toward favorable environments. At the base of each flagellum, a reversible rotary motor, which is powered by the proton- or the sodium-motive force, is embedded in the cell envelope. The motor consists of two parts: the rotating part, or rotor, that is connected to the hook and the filament, and the nonrotating part, or stator, that conducts coupling ion and is responsible for energy conversion. Intensive genetic and biochemical studies of the flagellum have been conducted in Salmonella typhimurium and Escherichia coli, and more than 50 gene products are known to be involved in flagella... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2042454 Wed, 17 Dec 2008 19:50:37 +0100 2042454 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2042453&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19081535%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Gadjev I, Stone JM, Gechev TS Programmed cell death (PCD), the highly regulated dismantling of cells, is essential for plant growth and survival. PCD plays key roles in embryo development, formation and maturation of many cell types and tissues, and plant reaction/adaptation to environmental conditions. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are not only toxic by products of aerobic metabolism with strictly controlled cellular levels, but they also function as signaling agents regulating many biological processes and producing pleiotropic effects. Over the last decade, ROS have become recognized as important modulators of plant PCD. Molecular genetic approaches using plant mutants and transcriptome studies related to ROS-mediated PCD have revealed a wide array of plant-specific cell de... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2042453 Wed, 17 Dec 2008 19:50:37 +0100 2042453 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2042452&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19081536%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Duffield A, Caplan MJ, Muth TR Epithelial cells line the lumens of organs and thus constitute the interface between the body's interior and exterior surfaces. This position endows these cells with the important task of regulating what enters and what is exported from the body. In order to accomplish this function, epithelia must have structurally and functionally distinct membrane surfaces: the apical surface exposed to the lumen, and the basolateral surface in contact with the laterally adjacent epithelial cells, and the connective tissue and capillary network below the epithelia. The specific lipid and protein contents of the apical and basolateral membrane surfaces are determined by a number of sorting and retention mechanisms. Many of these sorting and retention mechanisms... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2042452 Wed, 17 Dec 2008 19:50:37 +0100 2042452 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2042451&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19081537%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ribatti D The chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) is an extraembryonic membrane mediating gas and nutrient exchanges until hatching. Since it has a dense capillary network, it has been commonly used in vivo to study both angiogenesis and antiangiogenesis in response to normal tissues and cells, to tumor bioptic specimens and cells, or to soluble factors. During the last 8 years, this assay has been used in over 550 published works. This chapter summarizes current knowledge about the embryological origin of the CAM, morphology of its blood and lymphatic vessels, the use of CAM in the study of tumor angiogenesis and metastasis, angiogenic and antiangiogenic substances. The angiogenic response of CAM to multiple myeloma and neuroblastoma cells and bioptic specimens and th... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2042451 Wed, 17 Dec 2008 19:50:37 +0100 2042451 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2042450&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19081538%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Surguchov A Synucleins are small, soluble proteins expressed primarily in neural tissues and certain tumors. The family includes three known proteins: alpha-synuclein, beta-synuclein, and gamma-synuclein. A typical structural feature of synucleins is the presence of a repetitive, degenerative AA motif KTKEGV throughout the first 87 residues and acidic stretches within the C-terminal region. Members of the synuclein family are natively unfolded proteins that are characterized by a high net charge and low hydropathy. The synuclein family recently came into the spotlight when one of its members, alpha-synuclein, was linked both genetically and neuropathologically to Parkinson's disease. It has a role in other neurodegenerative diseases, such as dementia with Lewy bodies, multiple... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2042450 Wed, 17 Dec 2008 19:50:37 +0100 2042450 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2042449&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19081539%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ryskov AP There are more than 70 known unisexual species of fishes, amphibians, and reptiles. They are all-female populations of interspecific hybrid origin that reproduce without sex via altered gametogenetic mechanisms. They are either sperm independent as in parthenogenesis or sperm dependent as in gynogenesis or hybridogenesis, which causes clonal (or hemiclonal) inheritance. The first two modes of reproduction produce species composed of genetically isolated clones. In many previous papers, origin and ancestry, clonal diversity based on allozyme or mitochondrial DNA variation, ecology and evolution of unisexual vertebrates were discussed. This chapter reviews the role of mutations in genome diversity of some unisexual vertebrates revealed by DNA fingerprinting and/or by l... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2042449 Wed, 17 Dec 2008 19:50:37 +0100 2042449 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2042448&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19081540%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Amatruda JF, Patton EE Firmly established as a model system for development, the zebrafish is now emerging as an effective system for the study of the fundamental aspects of tumorigenesis. In keeping with the striking anatomical and physiological similarity between fish and mammals, zebrafish develop a wide spectrum of cancers resembling human malignancies. The potential for zebrafish as a cancer model derives from its strengths as an experimental system for developmental biology. Despite 450 million years of evolutionary distance, the pathways that govern vertebrate development including signaling, proliferation, cell movements, differentiation, and apoptosis-indeed, the same pathways that are often misregulated in tumorigenesis-are highly conserved between humans and zebrafi... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2042448 Wed, 17 Dec 2008 19:50:37 +0100 2042448 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2042447&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19081541%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kisseljov F, Sakharova O, Kondratjeva T Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers in women. The development of this disease involves reversible changes in the cervical tissue leading to various cellular abnormalities and ultimately to cervical cancer. Several well-defined stages of cervical neoplasia are described, namely, precancer lesions and cancer. Squamous cell carcinomas and adenocarcinomas are most frequent among them, the former being much more common. Each stage is characterized by specific morphological changes. These changes were analyzed in the context of recent molecular biology data. Cervical carcinogenesis associated with infection with high-risk human papillomaviruses (HPVs) contains several early genes that are necessary for viral replication and among... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2042447 Wed, 17 Dec 2008 19:50:37 +0100 2042447 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2042446&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19081542%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kuroiwa T, Misumi O, Nishida K, Yagisawa F, Yoshida Y, Fujiwara T, Kuroiwa H The original eukaryotic cells contained at least one set of double-membrane-bounded organelles (cell nucleus and mitochondria) and single-membrane-bounded organelles [endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, lysosomes (vacuoles), and microbodies (peroxisomes)]. An increase in the number of organelles accompanied the evolution of these cells into Amoebozoa and Opisthokonta. Furthermore, the basic cells, containing mitochondria, engulfed photosynthetic Cyanobacteria, which were converted to plastids, and the cells thereby evolved into cells characteristic of the Bikonta. How did basic single- and double-membrane-bounded organelles originate from bacteria-like cells during early eukaryotic evolution? To a... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2042446 Wed, 17 Dec 2008 19:50:37 +0100 2042446 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2042445&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19081543%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Vergés M Retromer is an evolutionary conserved protein complex required for endosome-to-Golgi retrieval of lysosomal hydrolases' receptors. A dimer of two sorting nexins-typically, SNX1 and/or SNX2-deforms the membrane and thus cooperates with retromer to ensure cargo sorting. Research in various model organisms indicates that retromer participates in sorting of additional molecules whose proper transport has important repercussions in development and disease. The role of retromer as well as SNXs in endosomal protein (re)cycling and protein targeting to specialized plasma membrane domains in polarized cells adds further complexity and has implications in growth control, the establishment of developmental patterns, cell adhesion, and migration. This chapter will discuss th... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2042445 Wed, 17 Dec 2008 19:50:37 +0100 2042445 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2042444&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19081544%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lackner DH, Bähler J The regulation of gene expression is fundamental to diverse biological processes, including cell growth and division, adaptation to environmental stress, as well as differentiation and development. Gene expression is controlled at multiple levels from transcription to protein degradation. The regulation at the level of translation, from specific transcripts to entire transcriptomes, adds considerable richness and sophistication to gene regulation. The past decade has provided much insight into the diversity of mechanisms and strategies to regulate translation in response to external or internal factors. Moreover, the increased application of different global approaches now provides a wealth of information on gene expression control from a genome-wide ... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2042444 Wed, 17 Dec 2008 19:50:37 +0100 2042444 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2042443&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19081545%26dopt%3DAbstract We present an overwiew, based on the analysis of mutants, on how Dictyostelium contributes as a genetic model system to decipher the complexity of host-pathogen interactions. PMID: 19081545 [PubMed - in process] (Source: International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology) International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2042443 Wed, 17 Dec 2008 19:50:37 +0100 2042443 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2042442&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19081546%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Wang JH, Thampatty BP Mechanical forces, including gravity, tension, compression, hydrostatic pressure, and fluid shear stress, play a vital role in human physiology and pathology. They particularly influence extracellular matrix (ECM) gene expression, ECM protein synthesis, and production of inflammatory mediators of many load-sensitive adult cells such as fibroblasts, chondrocytes, smooth muscle cells, and endothelial cells. Furthermore, the mechanical forces generated by cells themselves, known as cell traction forces (CTFs), also influence many biological processes such as wound healing, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Thus, the quantitative characterization of CTFs by qualities such as magnitude and distribution is useful for understanding physiological and pathological eve... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2042442 Wed, 17 Dec 2008 19:50:37 +0100 2042442 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1780518&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18779056%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Porzionato A, Macchi V, Parenti A, De Caro R The aim of the present study is to provide a review of the expression and action of trophic factors in the carotid body. In glomic type I cells, the following factors have been identified: brain-derived neurotrophic factor, glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor, artemin, ciliary neurotrophic factor, insulin-like growth factors-I and -II, basic fibroblast growth factor, epidermal growth factor, transforming growth factor-alpha and -beta(1), interleukin-1beta and -6, tumour necrosis factor-alpha, vascular endothelial growth factor, and endothelin-1 (ET-1). Growth factor receptors in the above cells include p75(LNGFR), TrkA, TrkB, RET, GDNF family receptors alpha1-3, gp130, IL-6Ralpha, EGFR, FGFR1, IL1-RI, TNF-RI, VEGFR-1 and -2,... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1780518 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 16:57:03 +0100 1780518 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1780517&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18779057%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Bogolyubov D, Parfenov V The nuclear structure of insect oocyte is described with reference to interchromatin granule clusters and Cajal bodies. It is suggested that the intranuclear structure is determined by the ovary organization and reflects the sources of oocyte RNA. Inactivated oocyte chromosomes in meroistic ovaries form a karyosphere, and their features are discussed. In insects with panoistic ovaries, the organization and molecular composition of complicated oocyte Cajal bodies are discussed, and the homology between a structure located inside Cajal bodies and interchromatin granule clusters is proved. Along with revealing some essential Cajal body components and factors involved in RNA polymerase II transcription, we analyze the absence of RNAP II itself from oocyte ... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1780517 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 16:57:03 +0100 1780517 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1780516&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18779058%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Sellick CA, Campbell RN, Reece RJ The enzymes of the Leloir pathway catalyze the conversion of galactose to a more metabolically useful version, glucose-6-phosphate. This pathway is required as galactose itself cannot be used for glycolysis directly. In most organisms, including the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, five enzymes are required to catalyze this conversion: a galactose mutarotase, a galactokinase, a galactose-1-phosphate uridyltransferase, a UDP-galactose-4-epimerase, and a phosphoglucomutase. In yeast, the genes encoding these enzymes are tightly controlled at the level of transcription and are only transcribed under specific sets of conditions. In the presence of glucose, the genes encoding the Leloir pathway enzymes (often called the GAL genes) are repressed thro... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1780516 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 16:57:03 +0100 1780516 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1780515&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18779059%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Shpakov AO, Pertseva MN Making progress in the study of hormone-sensitive signaling systems in vertebrates and human requires a better understanding of how chemosignaling systems in lower eukaryotes originated and how molecular mechanisms of signal transduction via these systems function. This review is devoted to the structural-functional organization of chemosignaling systems and their components in unicellular organisms such as Dictyostelium discoideum, yeasts and related fungi, flagellates, and ciliates. The attention is focused on receptors of the serpentine type, heterotrimeric GTP-binding proteins and adenylyl and guanylyl cyclases, generators of cAMP and cGMP, present in various forms in a majority of eukaryotic signaling systems coupled with G proteins. Signaling syst... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1780515 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 16:57:03 +0100 1780515 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1780514&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18779060%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Skibbens RV The continuance of life through cell division requires high fidelity DNA replication and chromosome segregation. During DNA replication, each parental chromosome is duplicated exactly and one time only. At the same time, the resulting chromosomes (called sister chromatids) become tightly paired along their length. This S-phase pairing, or cohesion, identifies chromatids as sisters over time. During mitosis in most eukaryotes, sister chromatids bi-orient to the mitotic spindle. After each chromosome pair is properly oriented, the cohesion established during S phase is inactivated in a tightly regulated fashion, allowing sister chromatids to segregate away from each other. Recent findings of cohesin structure and enzymology provide new insights into cohesion, while m... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1780514 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 16:57:03 +0100 1780514 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1780513&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18779061%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Vihtelic TS The transparent properties of the lens and its ability to focus light onto the retina are critical for normal vision. Optical clarity of the lens is achieved and maintained by a unique, highly regulated integration of lens cell proliferation and differentiation that persists throughout life. Zebrafish is a powerful genetic model for studying vertebrate lens differentiation and growth because the structural organization of the lens and gene functions are largely conserved with mammals, including humans. However, some features of zebrafish lens developmental morphology and gene expression are different from those of mammals and other terrestrial vertebrates. For example, the presumptive zebrafish lens delaminates from the surface ectoderm to form a solid mass of cell... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1780513 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 16:57:03 +0100 1780513 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1718438&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18703403%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Conte FP The salt secretory cell has two distinct patterns of plasma membrane development. First, the basolateral surface forms a tubular labyrinth. It contains the subunit alpha-2 of the Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase bound together with a beta subunit for structural attachment within the lipid bilayer. Second, the apical plasma membranes form a multiple array of extending tufts. These tufts contain the subunit alpha-1 of the Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase bound together with a beta subunit for structural integrity within the lipid bilayer. The presence of an active transporter for chloride remains as an open question. It has been taken as preliminary evidence from brine shrimp cystic fibrosis toxicity that a cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator chloride channel could be present in the ... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1718438 Wed, 20 Aug 2008 18:24:24 +0100 1718438 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1710863&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18703402%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Meyuhas O The phosphorylation of ribosomal protein S6 (rpS6), which occurs in response to a wide variety of stimuli on five evolutionarily conserved serine residues, has attracted much attention since its discovery more than three decades ago. However, despite a large body of information on the respective kinases and the signal transduction pathways, the role of this phosphorylation remained obscure. It is only recent that targeting the genes encoding rpS6, the phosphorylatable serine residues or the respective kinases that the unique role of rpS6 and its posttranslational modification have started to be elucidated. This review focuses primarily on the critical role of rpS6 for mouse development, the pathways that transduce various signals into rpS6 phosphorylation, and the ph... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1710863 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 17:29:55 +0100 1710863 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1710862&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18703403%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Conte FP The salt secretory cell has two distinct patterns of plasma membrane development. First, the basolateral surface forms a tubular labyrinth. It contains the subunit alpha-2 of the Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase bound together with a beta subunit for structural attachment within the lipid bilayer. Second, the apical plasma membranes form a multiple array of extending tufts. These tufts contain the subunit alpha-1 of the Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase bound together with a beta subunit for structural integrity within the lipid bilayer. The presence of an active transporter for chloride remains as an open question. It has been taken as preliminary evidence from brine shrimp cystic fibrosis toxicity that a cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator chloride channel could be present in the ... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1710862 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 17:29:55 +0100 1710862 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1710861&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18703404%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Woodard GE, Rosado JA Four major natriuretic peptides have been isolated: atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP), and Dendroaspis-type natriuretic peptide (DNP). Natriuretic peptides play an important role in the regulation of cardiovascular homeostasis maintaining blood pressure and extracellular fluid volume. The classical endocrine effects of natriuretic peptides to modulate fluid and electrolyte balance and vascular smooth muscle tone are complemented by autocrine and paracrine actions that include regulation of coronary blood flow and, therefore, myocardial perfusion; modulation of proliferative responses during myocardial and vascular remodeling; and cytoprotective anti-ischemic effects. The actions of natriure... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1710861 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 17:29:55 +0100 1710861 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1710860&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18703405%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Mencarelli C, Lupetti P, Dallai R Insects do not possess ciliated epithelia, and cilia/flagella are present in the sperm tail and-as modified cilia-in mechano- and chemosensory neurons. The core cytoskeletal component of these organelles, the axoneme, is a microtubule-based structure that has been conserved throughout evolution. However, in insects the sperm axoneme exhibits distinctive structural features; moreover, several insect groups are characterized by an unusual sperm axoneme variability. Besides the abundance of morphological data on insect sperm flagella, most of the available molecular information on the insect axoneme comes from genetic studies on Drosophila spermatogenesis, and only recently other insect species have been proposed as useful models. Here, we review... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1710860 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 17:29:55 +0100 1710860 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1710859&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18703406%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Hildenbeutel M, Habib SJ, Herrmann JM, Rapaport D Mitochondria are surrounded by a double membrane system that forms four intra-organelle compartments: the outer membrane, inner membrane, intermembrane space, and matrix. Each of the two membranes contains a unique set of proteins defining specific functions of that membrane. The vast majority of mitochondrial proteins including those of the mitochondrial membranes are nuclear encoded and synthesized as precursor proteins in the cytosol. Subsequently, they are targeted to the mitochondria and become sorted to the correct submitochondrial destination. A small portion of the mitochondrial inner membrane proteins is encoded by the mitochondrial genome. These proteins are synthesized on mitochondrial ribosomes and are inserted by d... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1710859 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 17:29:55 +0100 1710859 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1710858&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18703407%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Itoh H, Ueguchi-Tanaka M, Matsuoka M Gibberellins (GAs), a large family of tetracyclic, diterpenoid plant hormones, play an important role in regulating diverse processes throughout plant development. In recent years, significant advances have been made in the isolation of GA signaling components and GA-responsive genes. All available data have indicated that DELLA proteins are an essential negative regulator in the GA signaling pathway and GA derepresses DELLA-mediated growth suppression by inducing degradation of DELLA proteins through the ubiquitin-26S proteasome proteolytic pathway. Identification of GID1, a gene encoding an unknown protein with similarity to hormone-sensitive lipases, has revealed that GID1 acts as a functional GA receptor with a reasonable binding affini... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1710858 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 17:29:55 +0100 1710858 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1710857&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18703408%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Mtango NR, Potireddy S, Latham KE The oocyte is a unique and highly specialized cell responsible for creating, activating, and controlling the embryonic genome, as well as supporting basic processes such as cellular homeostasis, metabolism, and cell cycle progression in the early embryo. During oogenesis, the oocyte accumulates a myriad of factors to execute these processes. Oogenesis is critically dependent upon correct oocyte-follicle cell interactions. Disruptions in oogenesis through environmental factors and changes in maternal health and physiology can compromise oocyte quality, leading to arrested development, reduced fertility, and epigenetic defects that affect long-term health of the offspring. Our expanding understanding of the molecular determinants of oocyte quali... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1710857 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 17:29:55 +0100 1710857 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1619101&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18544491%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ribatti D The development of transgenic technologies in mice has allowed the study of the consequences of genetic alterations on angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis. This review summarizes the murine models currently available for studies involving the manipulation of angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis. Abnormal embryonic vascular development, resulting from defects in the formation of a primitive vascular plexus, has been observed in mice lacking vascular endothelial growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 and -2, transforming growth factor-beta, fibronectin, or vascular endothelial cadherin. Defects in the expansion and remodeling of the embryonic vasculature occur in mice deficient in Tie-1, Tie-2, or angiopoietin-1, and in mice overexpressing neuropilin... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1619101 Mon, 14 Jul 2008 18:26:00 +0100 1619101 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1619100&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18544492%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Mine I, Menzel D, Okuda K The giant-celled algae, which consist of cells reaching millimeters in size, some even centimeters, exhibit unique cell architecture and physiological characteristics. Their cells display a variety of morphogenetic phenomena, that is, growth, division, differentiation, and reproductive cell formation, as well as wound-healing responses. Studies using immunofluorescence microscopy and pharmacological approaches have shown that microtubules and/or actin filaments are involved in many of these events through the generation of intracellular movement of cell components or entire protoplasmic contents and the spatial control of cell activities in specific areas of the giant cells. A number of environmental factors including physical stimuli, such as light a... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1619100 Mon, 14 Jul 2008 18:26:00 +0100 1619100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1619099&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18544493%26dopt%3DAbstract We describe how these approaches are gaining valuable insights into the parasite-host cell interaction, including (1) the multistep process of red blood cell invasion by the merozoite; (2) the mechanisms by which the intracellular parasite feeds on the red blood cell and exports parasite proteins to modify its cytoadherent properties; (3) the modulation of the cell cycle by sensing the environmental tryptophan-related molecules; (4) the mechanism used to survive in a low Ca(2+) concentration inside red blood cells; (5) the activation of signal transduction machinery and the regulation of intracellular calcium; (6) transfection technology; and (7) transcriptional regulation and genome-wide mRNA studies in Plasmodium falciparum. PMID: 18544493 [PubMed - in process] (Source: International... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1619099 Mon, 14 Jul 2008 18:26:00 +0100 1619099 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1619098&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18544494%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Parnaik VK Lamins are the major architectural proteins of the nucleus and are essential for nuclear integrity and assembly. Lamins are also involved in the organization of nuclear functions such as DNA replication, transcription, and repair. Mutations in the human lamin genes lead to highly debilitating genetic diseases that affect a number of different tissues such as muscle, adipose, and neuronal tissues, or cause premature aging syndromes. The observed interactions of lamins with inner nuclear membrane proteins, chromatin, and various regulatory factors have given important insights into the role of lamins in cellular processes and tissue-specific signaling pathways. PMID: 18544494 [PubMed - in process] (Source: International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology) International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1619098 Mon, 14 Jul 2008 18:26:00 +0100 1619098 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1619097&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18544495%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Eskelinen EL Macroautophagy is a self-digesting pathway responsible for the removal of long-lived proteins and organelles by the lysosomal compartment. Parts of the cytoplasm are first segregated in double-membrane-bound autophagosomes, which then undergo a multistep maturation process including fusion with endosomes and lysosomes. The segregated cytoplasm is then degraded by the lysosomal hydrolases. The discovery of ATG genes has greatly enhanced our understanding of the mechanisms of this pathway. Two novel ubiquitin-like protein conjugation systems were shown to function during autophagosome formation. Autophagy has been shown to play a role in a wide variety of physiological processes including energy metabolism, organelle turnover, growth regulation, and aging. Impaired ... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1619097 Mon, 14 Jul 2008 18:26:00 +0100 1619097 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1619096&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18544496%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Devenish RJ, Prescott M, Rodgers AJ We review recent advances in understanding of the structure of the F(1)F(0)-ATP synthase of the mitochondrial inner membrane (mtATPase). A significant achievement has been the determination of the structure of the principal peripheral or stator stalk components bringing us closer to achieving the Holy Grail of a complete 3D structure for the complex. A major focus of the field in recent years has been to understand the physiological significance of dimers or other oligomer forms of mtATPase recoverable from membranes and their relationship to the structure of the cristae of the inner mitochondrial membrane. In addition, the association of mtATPase with other membrane proteins has been described and suggests that further levels of functional ... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1619096 Mon, 14 Jul 2008 18:26:00 +0100 1619096 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1619095&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18544497%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Konstantinova IM, Tsimokha AS, Mittenberg AG The 26S proteasome is the key enzyme of the ubiquitin-dependent pathway of protein degradation. This energy-dependent nanomachine is composed of a 20S catalytic core and associated regulatory complexes. The eukaryotic 20S proteasomes demonstrate besides several kinds of peptidase activities, the endoribonuclease, protein-chaperone and DNA-helicase activities. Ubiquitin-proteasome pathway controls the levels of the key regulatory proteins in the cell and thus is essential for life and is involved in regulation of crucial cellular processes. Proteasome population in the cell is structurally and functionally heterogeneous. These complexes are subjected to tightly organized regulation, particularly, to a variety of posttranslational mod... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1619095 Mon, 14 Jul 2008 18:26:00 +0100 1619095 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1619094&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18544498%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Hou ST, Jiang SX, Smith RA Successful axonal outgrowth in the adult central nervous system (CNS) is central to the process of nerve regeneration and brain repair. To date, much of the knowledge on axonal guidance and outgrowth comes from studies on neuritogenesis and patterning during development where distal growth cones constantly sample the local environment and respond to specific physical and trophic influences. Opposing permissive (e.g., growth factors) and hostile signals (e.g., repulsive cues) are processed, leading to growth cone remodelling, and a concomitant restructuring of the cytoskeleton, thereby permitting pioneering extension and a potential for establishing synaptic connections. Repulsive cues, such as semaphorins, ephrins and myelin-secreted inhibitory glyco... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1619094 Mon, 14 Jul 2008 18:26:00 +0100 1619094 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1619093&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18544499%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Cooper JA, Sept D The heterodimeric actin capping protein, referred to here as "CP," is an essential element of the actin cytoskeleton, binding to the barbed ends of actin filaments and regulating their polymerization. In vitro, CP has a critical role in the dendritic nucleation process of actin assembly mediated by Arp2/3 complex, and in vivo, CP is important for actin assembly and actin-based process of morphogenesis and differentiation. Recent studies have provided new insight into the mechanism of CP binding the barbed end, which raises new possibilities for the dynamics of CP and actin in cells. In addition, a number of molecules that bind and regulate CP have been discovered, suggesting new ideas for how CP may integrate into diverse processes of cell physiology. PMI... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1619093 Mon, 14 Jul 2008 18:26:00 +0100 1619093 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1619092&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18544500%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Rempel MA, Schlenk D A number of studies have indicated widespread reproductive endocrine disruption in wild fish populations. A number of laboratory studies have been conducted to determine the sources and to elucidate potential mechanisms of the disruption. This review explores the varied mechanisms of estrogenic and antiandrogenic effects in fish including effects at the steroid receptor level, effects on steroid synthesis, distribution, and excretion, actions up the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonad axis, as well as indirect mechanisms including thyroid and growth hormone disruption. Consequences of reproductive endocrine disruption will be touched on including non-reproductive responses such as impaired gene regulation, effects of unscheduled protein synthesis and DNA damage, ... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1619092 Mon, 14 Jul 2008 18:26:00 +0100 1619092 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1619091&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18544501%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Zegers M The primary function of epithelia is to provide a barrier between the extracellular environment and the interior of the body. Efficient epithelial repair mechanisms are therefore crucial for homeostasis. The epithelial wound-healing process involves highly regulated morphogenetic changes of epithelial cells that are driven by dynamic changes of the cytoskeleton. P21-activated kinases are serine/threonine kinases that have emerged as important regulators of the cytoskeleton. These kinases, which are activated downsteam of the Rho GTPases Rac and cd42, were initially mostly implicated in the regulation of cell migration. More recently, however, these kinases were shown to have many additional functions that are relevant to the regulation of epithelial wound healing. Her... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1619091 Mon, 14 Jul 2008 18:26:00 +0100 1619091 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1619090&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18544502%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lim RY, Ullman KS, Fahrenkrog B Nucleocytoplasmic exchange of proteins and ribonucleoprotein particles occurs via nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) that reside in the double membrane of the nuclear envelope (NE). Significant progress has been made during the past few years in obtaining better structural resolution of the three-dimensional architecture of NPC with the help of cryo-electron tomography and atomic structures of domains from nuclear pore proteins (nucleoporins). Biophysical and imaging approaches have helped elucidate how nucleoporins act as a selective barrier in nucleocytoplasmic transport. Nucleoporins act not only in trafficking of macromolecules but also in proper microtubule attachment to kinetochores, in the regulation of gene expression and signaling events ass... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1619090 Mon, 14 Jul 2008 18:26:00 +0100 1619090 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1619089&cid=s_37716_171_f&fid=37716&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18544503%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Rivero F Endocytosis, an essential process of all eukaryotic cells, requires the actin cytoskeleton for proper functioning. The soil amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum is well known for its contribution to the actin cytoskeleton field. The genetic tractability and the availability of appropriate tools have made of Dictyostelium an attractive model for studies of endocytosis and vesicle trafficking as well. These tools include a large palette of fluorescent protein fusions and the combination of improved fractionation methods with high throughput techniques along with the recently propagated use of the amoeba a host for microbial pathogens. In this review I discuss in a comprehensive manner the evidence accumulated in the literature towards a participation of components of the mic... International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1619089 Mon, 14 Jul 2008 18:26:00 +0100 1619089