Abstract
Cell-cell fusion is critical for the conception, development, and physiology of multicellular organisms. Although cellular fusogenic proteins and the actin cytoskeleton are implicated in cell-cell fusion, it remains unclear whether and how they coordinate to promote plasma membrane fusion. We reconstituted a high-efficiency, inducible cell fusion culture system in the normally nonfusing Drosophila S2R+ cells. Both fusogenic proteins and actin cytoskeletal rearrangements were necessary for cell fusion, and in combination they were sufficient to impart fusion competence. Localized actin polymerization triggered by specific cell-cell or cell-matrix adhesion molecules propelled invasive cell membrane protrusions, which in turn promoted fusogenic protein engagement and plasma membrane fusion. This de novo cell fusion culture system reveals a general role for actin-propelled invasive membrane protrusions in driving fusogenic protein engagement during cell-cell fusion.
Publication types
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Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
MeSH terms
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Actins / metabolism*
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Animals
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Caenorhabditis elegans Proteins / genetics
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Caenorhabditis elegans Proteins / metabolism*
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Cell Adhesion Molecules / genetics
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Cell Adhesion Molecules / metabolism*
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Cell Communication*
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Cell Culture Techniques
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Cell Fusion*
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Cell Line
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Cell Surface Extensions / metabolism
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Cell Surface Extensions / physiology
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Drosophila Proteins / genetics
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Drosophila Proteins / metabolism
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Drosophila melanogaster / cytology
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Immunoglobulins / genetics
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Immunoglobulins / metabolism
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Membrane Glycoproteins / genetics
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Membrane Glycoproteins / metabolism*
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Membrane Proteins / genetics
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Membrane Proteins / metabolism
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Muscle Proteins / genetics
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Muscle Proteins / metabolism
Substances
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Actins
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Caenorhabditis elegans Proteins
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Cell Adhesion Molecules
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Drosophila Proteins
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EFF-1 protein, C elegans
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Immunoglobulins
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Membrane Glycoproteins
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Membrane Proteins
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Muscle Proteins
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SNS protein, Drosophila
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kirre protein, Drosophila