Regulated exocytosis in chromaffin cells and cytotoxic T lymphocytes: how similar are they?

Ute Becherer, Moritz R Medart, Claudia Schirra, Elmar Krause, David Stevens, Jens Rettig

Journal: Cell calcium 2013;52(3-4):303-12

PMID: 22560267

Full Text on Elsevier Science View on PubMed

Abstract

Chromaffin cells from the adrenal medulla secrete catecholamines into the blood stream as part of the fight-or-flight response. Cytotoxic T lymphocytes from the immune system release cytotoxic substances to kill antigen-presenting cells. While at first glance these two cell types do not seem to have much in common, evidence from human diseases indicates that the molecular mechanisms of exocytosis of the respective granules share many similar features. In this review we highlight the similarities and differences of individual aspects of granule maturation and release in both cell types. In addition, we discuss established and putative molecules involved in distinct steps and suggest technical approaches which might facilitate future studies in chromaffin cells and cytotoxic T lymphocytes.

Address: Institut für Physiologie, Universität des Saarlandes, Kirrberger Straße, Gebäude 59, 66421 Homburg, Germany.

DOI: 10.1016/j.ceca.2012.04.002

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MeSH Terms: Adrenal Medulla, Calcium, Chromaffin Cells, Exocytosis, Humans, Molecular Dynamics Simulation, Secretory Vesicles, T-Lymphocytes, Cytotoxic