Exocytosis and Endocytosis


Book Description

This volume provides basic and cutting-edge methods and protocols to study the major characteristics of eukaryotic cells. Chapters detail the different pathways of endocytosis in vivo, real time imaging of endocytic steps, endocytosis in model organisms, super-resolution methods to follow proteins involved in exocytosis, specific protocols for exocytosis in specialized cells such as neutrophils or neuroendocrine cells, as well as secretion of exosomes. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Cutting-edge and clearly written, Exocytosis and Endocytosis: Methods and Protocols is a valuable resource for researchers in the fields of cell biology, neurology, immunology, oncology, and those interested in studying protein trafficking and signal regulation.




Functional Ultrastructure


Book Description

This atlas provides a detailed insight into the complex structure and organization of cells and tissues, and highlights their specific functions as well as the dynamics of diverse intracellular processes. Highly informative electron micrographs are complemented by explanatory texts, selected references and schemes. The concept that subcellular organelles provide the structural foundation for fundamental processes of living organisms is emphasized. The first part covers the cellular organelles and changes caused by experiments or occurring under pathological conditions. The second part employs selected examples to illustrate the principles of functional tissue organization and typical changes resulting from experimental induction or pathological situations. The third edition of the atlas, revised and extended by 23 plates, thus provides an invaluable resource for scientists and students of medicine and biological sciences, particularly of histology, cell and molecular biology. Moreover, it will serve as a handy reference guide for diagnostic and research electron microscopy laboratories in clinical, industrial, and academic settings.




The Biogenesis of Cellular Organelles


Book Description

The Biogenesis of Cellular Organelles represents a comprehensive summary of recent advances in the study of the biogenesis and functional dynamics of the major organelles operating in the eukaryotic cell. This book begins by placing the study of organelle biogenesis in a historical perspective by describing past scientific strategies, theories, and findings and relating these foundations to current investigations. Reviews of protein and lipid mediators important for organelle biogenesis are then presented, and are followed by summaries focused on the endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi, lysosome, nucleus, mitochondria, and peroxisome.




Biology of Phosphoinositides


Book Description

This is a review of the current opinions on lipid signalling research with an emphasis on the integration of the use of lipid signals in signal transduction and membrane trafficking. These two areas have traditionally been seen as separate, but in the light of recent research it has become apparent that any work in this area must include the two, as this book does. In the text, control of synthesis, translocation, and degradation of phosphoinositides is given extensive coverage; there is specific discussion of the PH and FYVE lipid binding domains that allow lipids to control the movement, location, and activation-state of membrane proteins; the regulation of phospholipase C, phospholipase D, the phosphoinositide-3-kinases, chloride channel conductance by inositol (3,4,5,6) tetraphosphate, and of cytoskeletal protein activity by inositol lipids are all covered in depth.




Lipid-mediated Protein Signaling


Book Description

This book provides the most updated information of how membrane lipids mediate protein signaling from studies carried out in animal and plant cells. Also, there are some chapters that go beyond and expand these studies of protein-lipid interactions at the structural level. The book begins with a literature review from investigations associated to sphingolipids, followed by studies that describe the role of phosphoinositides in signaling and closing with the function of other key lipids in signaling at the plasma membrane and intracellular organelles.




The regulated secretory pathway in neuroendocrine cells


Book Description

The regulated secretory pathway is a hallmark of neuroendocrine cells. This process comprises many sequential steps, which include ER-associated protein synthesis, post-translational modification of proteins in the Golgi complex, sorting and packing of secretory proteins into carrier granules, cytoskeleton-based granule transport towards the plasma membrane and tethering, docking and fusion of granules with specialized releasing zones. Each stage is subjected to a rigorous regulation by a plethora of factors that function in a spatially and temporarily coordinated fashion. Much effort has been devoted to characterize the precise role of the regulatory proteins participating in the different steps of this process and to identify new factors in order to obtain a unifying picture of the secretory pathway. In spite of this and given the enormous complexity of the process, certain stages are not fully understood yet and many players remain to be identified. The aim of this Research Topic is to gather review articles and original research papers on the molecular mechanisms that govern and ensure the correct release of neuropeptides.




Membrane Biogenesis


Book Description

Many individual aspects of the dynamics and assembly of biological membranes have been studied in great detail. Cell biological approaches, advanced genetics, biophysics and biochemistry have greatly contributed to an increase in our knowledge in this field.lt is obvious however, that the three major membrane constituents - lipids, proteins and carbohydrates- are studied, in most cases separately and that a coherent overview of the various aspects of membrane biogenesis is not readily available. The NATO Advanced Study Institute on "New Perspectives in the Dynamics of Assembly of Biomembranes" intended to provide such an overview: it was set up to teach students and specialists the achievements obtained in the various research areas and to try and integrate the numerous aspects of membrane assembly into a coherent framework. The articles in here reflect this. Statting with detailed contributions on phospholipid structure, dynamics, organization and biogenesis, an up to date overview of the basic, lipidic backbone of biomembranes is given. Extensive progress is made in the research on membrane protein biosynthesis. In particular the post- and co-translational modification processes of proteins, the mechanisms of protein translocation and the sorting mechanisms which are necessary to direct proteins to their final, intra - or extracellular destination have been characterized in detail. Modern genetic approaches were indispensable in this research area: gene cloning, hybrid protein construction, site directed mutagenesis and sequencing techniques elucidated many functional aspects of specific nucleic acid and amino acid sequences.




Methods in Yeast Genetics


Book Description




Organelle Contact Sites


Book Description

This book provides the first comprehensive coverage of the quickly evolving research field of membrane contact sites (MCS). A total of 16 chapters explain their organization and role and unveil the significance of MCS for various diseases. MCS, the intracellular structures where organellar membranes come in close contact with one another, mediate the exchange of proteins, lipids, and ions. Via these functions, MCS are critical for the survival and the growth of the cell. Owing to that central role in the functioning of cells, MCS dysfunctions lead to important defects of human physiology, influence viral and bacterial infection, and cause disease such as inflammation, type II diabetes, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer. To approach such a multifaceted topic, this volume assembles a series of chapters dealing with the full array of research about MCS and their respective roles for diseases. Most chapters also introduce the history and the state of the art of MCS research, which will initiate discussion points for the respective types of MCS for years to come. This work will appeal to all cell biologists as well as researchers on diseases that are impacted by MCS dysfunction. Additionally, it will stimulate graduate students and postdocs who will energize, drive, and develop the research field in the near future.




Postharvest Biology and Nanotechnology


Book Description

A comprehensive introduction to the physiology, biochemistry, and molecular biology of produce growth, paired with cutting-edge technological advances in produce preservation Revised and updated, the second edition of Postharvest Biology and Nanotechnology explores the most recent developments in postharvest biology and nanotechnology. Since the publication of the first edition, there has been an increased understanding of the developmental physiology, biochemistry, and molecular biology during early growth, maturation, ripening, and postharvest conditions. The contributors—noted experts in the field—review the improved technologies that maintain the shelf life and quality of fruits, vegetables, and flowers. This second edition contains new strategies that can be implemented to remedy food security issues, including but not limited to phospholipase D inhibition technology and ethylene inhibition via 1-MCP technology. The text offers an introduction to technologies used in production practices and distribution of produce around the world, as well as the process of sencescence on a molecular and biochemical level. The book also explores the postharvest value chain for various produce, quality evaluation techniques, and the most current nanotechnology applications. This important resource: • Expands on the first edition to explore in-depth postharvest biology with emphasis on developments in nanotechnology • Contains contributions from leaders in the field • Includes the most recent advances in postharvest biology and technology, including but not limited to phospholipase D and 1-MCP technology • Puts the focus on basic science as well as technology and practical applications • Applies a physiology, biochemistry, and biotechnology approach to the subject Written for crop science researchers and professionals, horticultural researchers, agricultural engineers, food scientists working with fruits and vegetables, Postharvest Biology and Nanotechnology, Second Edition provides a comprehensive introduction to this subject, with a grounding in the basic science with the technology and practical applications.