Membrane raft redox signalosomes in endothelial cells

Free Radic Res. 2010 Aug;44(8):831-42. doi: 10.3109/10715762.2010.485994.

Abstract

Membrane rafts (MRs) are specialized microdomains in the cell membrane with an altered lipid composition. Upon various stimulations, MRs can be clustered to aggregate or recruit NADPH oxidase sub-units and related proteins to form MR redox signalosomes in the membrane of cells like vascular endothelial cells (ECs). Multiple protein complexes, like MR redox signalosomes, are now considered to play a crucial role in the regulation of cell function and in the development of different cell dysfunctions. To form such redox signalosomes, ceramide will be generated from the hydrolysis of sphingomyelin by lysosomal acid sphingomyelinase that has been translocated via lysosome fusion to the MR area. In this brief review, current information is provided to help understand the occurrence and function of MR redox signalosomes. This may increase enthusiasm of the scientific community for further studies on the molecular mechanisms and the functional significance of forming such MR redox signalosomes.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Endothelial Cells / cytology
  • Endothelial Cells / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Membrane Microdomains / metabolism*
  • Oxidation-Reduction
  • Signal Transduction*