Relative distribution of myosin, actin, and alpha-actinin in adherent monocytes

Eur J Histochem. 1999;43(1):71-7.

Abstract

The characteristic amoeboid movement of human leucocytes uses mechanical energy derived from the hydrolysis of adenosine triphosphate through a mechanochemical system of the contractile proteins myosin, actin, and the actin-associated protein alpha-actinin. We observed the relative distribution of myosin, actin, and alpha-actinin in adherent monocytes during movement by a double-fluorescence staining procedure. The results indicate that myosin and alpha-actinin are closely associated with the actin cable network, and that alpha-actinin is in close association with the plasma membrane and anchors filamentous actin (F-actin) beneath the plasma membrane; F-actin and alpha-actinin play an important role at the leading edge during the formation of lamellipodia. These findings should be helpful in clarifying the mechanism of leucocyte movement from a morphologic standpoint.

MeSH terms

  • Actinin / metabolism*
  • Actins / metabolism*
  • Cell Adhesion / physiology
  • Cell Movement
  • Cytoplasm / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Microscopy, Fluorescence
  • Monocytes / cytology
  • Monocytes / metabolism*
  • Myosins / metabolism*

Substances

  • Actins
  • Actinin
  • Myosins