Cooperation of Various Cytoskeletal Components Orchestrates Intercellular Spread of Mitochondria between B-Lymphoma Cells through Tunnelling Nanotubes.

Membrane nanotubes (NTs) are dynamic communication channels connecting spatially separated cells even over long distances and promoting the transport of different cellular cargos. NTs are also involved in the intercellular spread of different pathogens and the deterioration of some neurological disorders. Transport processes via NTs may be controlled by cytoskeletal elements.

Molecular Relay Stations in Membrane Nanotubes: IRSp53 Involved in Actin-Based Force Generation.

Membrane nanotubes are cell protrusions that grow to tens of micrometres and functionally connect cells. Actin filaments are semi-flexible polymers, and their polymerisation provides force for the formation and growth of membrane nanotubes. The molecular bases for the provision of appropriate force through such long distances are not yet clear.

Placental galectins regulate innate and adaptive immune responses in pregnancy.

Introduction: Galectins are master regulators of maternal immune responses and placentation in pregnancy. Galectin-13 (gal-13) and galectin-14 (gal-14) are expressed solely by the placenta and contribute to maternal-fetal immune tolerance by inducing the apoptosis of activated T lymphocytes and the polarization of neutrophils toward an immune-regulatory phenotype.Furthermore, their decreased placental expression is associated with pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia and miscarriage.