The plasticity of multivesicular bodies and the regulation of antigen presentation

Jean-Luc Murk, Willem Stoorvogel, Monique J Kleijmeer, Hans J Geuze

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

    Abstract

    Multivesicular bodies (MVBs) are ubiquitous endocytic organelles containing numerous 50-80 nm vesicles. MVBs are very dynamic in shape and function. In antigen presenting cells (APCs), MVBs play a central role in the loading of major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC II) with antigenic peptides. How MHC II is transported from MVBs to the cell surface is only partly understood. One way involves direct fusion of MVBs with the plasma membrane. As a consequence, their internal vesicles are secreted as so-called exosomes. An alternative has been illustrated in maturing dendritic cells (DCs). Here, MVBs are reshaped into long tubules by back fusion of the internal vesicles with the MVB limiting membrane. Vesicles derived from the tips of these tubules then carry MHC II to the cell surface.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)303-11
    Number of pages9
    JournalSeminars in cell & developmental biology
    Volume13
    Issue number4
    Publication statusPublished - Aug 2002

    Keywords

    • Animals
    • Antigen Presentation
    • Antigen-Presenting Cells
    • Humans
    • Transport Vesicles

    Fingerprint

    Dive into the research topics of 'The plasticity of multivesicular bodies and the regulation of antigen presentation'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

    Cite this