The role of the cytoskeleton and molecular motors in endosomal dynamics

Semin Cell Dev Biol. 2014 Jul;31(100):20-9. doi: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2014.04.011. Epub 2014 Apr 13.

Abstract

The endocytic pathway is essential for processes that define how cells interact with their environment, including receptor signalling, cell adhesion and migration, pathogen entry, membrane protein turnover and nutrient uptake. The spatial organisation of endocytic trafficking requires motor proteins that tether membranes or transport them along the actin and microtubule cytoskeletons. Microtubules, actin filaments and motor proteins also provide force to deform and assist in the scission of membranes, thereby facilitating endosomal sorting and the generation of transport intermediates.

Keywords: Dynein; Endosome; Kinesin; Lysosome; Myosin; Recycling.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Actins / metabolism
  • Animals
  • Cell Membrane / metabolism
  • Cytoskeleton / metabolism*
  • Endosomes / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Molecular Motor Proteins / metabolism*

Substances

  • Actins
  • Molecular Motor Proteins