Aggresomes do not represent a general cellular response to protein misfolding in mammalian cells
2008
Aggresomes and Protein Misfolding in Cells
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Beaudoin Simon, Goggin Kevin, Bissonnette Cyntia, Grenier Catherine, Roucou Xavier
Primary Institution: University of Sherbrooke
Hypothesis
Do misfolded proteins inevitably form aggresomes in mammalian cells?
Conclusion
Aggresomes are not obligatory products of protein misfolding in vivo.
Supporting Evidence
- A cytoplasmic form of the prion protein can form either aggresomes or dispersed aggregates depending on the cell type.
- Dispersed aggregates do not require the microtubule network for their formation.
- The formation of aggresomes is independent of the levels of protein expression.
- Different cell lines exhibit distinct responses to misfolded proteins, with some forming aggresomes and others forming dispersed aggregates.
Takeaway
Sometimes, when proteins in our cells get messed up, they can form clumps called aggresomes, but not always.
Methodology
The study involved transfecting various cell lines with a cytoplasmic form of prion protein and observing the formation of aggresomes versus dispersed aggregates.
Limitations
The study does not explore all possible cell types or conditions that might affect aggresome formation.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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