Author/Editor		Veranič, Peter; Lokar, Maruša; Schuetz, Gerhard J; Weghuber, Julian; Wieser, Stefan; Haegerstrand, Henry; Kralj-Iglič, Veronika; Iglič, Aleš
Title		Different types of cell-to-cell connections mediated by nanotubular structures
Type		članek
Source		Biophys J
Vol. and No.		Letnik 95, št. 9
Publication year		2008
Volume		str. 4416-4425
Language		eng
Abstract		Communication between cells is crucial for proper functioning of multi-cellular organisms. The recently discovered membranous tubes, named tunnelling nanotubes (TNTs), that directly bridge neighbouring cells, may offer a very specific and effective way of intercellular communication. Our experiments on RT4 and T24 urothelial cell lines show that nanotubes that bridge neighbouring cells can be divided into two types. The nanotubes of type I are shorter, more dynamic and contain actin filaments. They are formed when cells explore their surroundings in order to make contact with another cell. The nanotubes of type II are longer, more stable and have cytokeratin filaments. They are formed when two already connected cells start to move apart. On the nanotubes of both types small vesicles were found as an integral part of the nanotubes (i.e. dilatations of the nanotubes). The dilatations of type II nanotubes do not move along the nanotubes, while the nanotubes of type I have frequently dilatations (gondolas) that move along the nanotubes in both directions. A possible model of formation and mechanical stability of nanotubes that bridge two neighbouring cells is discussed.
Descriptors		CELL COMMUNICATION INTERCELLULAR JUNCTIONS UROTHELIUM CYTOSKELETON CELL LINE FLUORESCENT ANTIBODY TECHNIQUE MICROSCOPY, FLUORESCENCE MICROSCOPY, ELECTRON LIPOSOMES