Dictyostelium discoideum is a simple eukaryote amenable to detailed molecular studies of the endocytic processes phagocytosis and macropinocytosis. Both the actin cytoskeleton and associated myosin motors are well-described and a range of mutants are now available that enable characterization of the role of the cytoskeleton in a range of cellular functions. Molecular genetic studies have uncovered roles for two different classes of Dictyostelium unconventional myosins in endocytosis. The class I myosins contribute to both macropinocytosis and phagocytosis by playing a general role in controlling actin-dependent manipulations of the actin-rich cortex. A class VII myosin has been shown to be important for phagocytosis. This brief review summarizes what is known about the role of these different myosins in both fluid and particle uptake in this system.
How to translate text using browser tools
1 May 2000
The Role of Unconventional Myosins in Dictyostelium Endocytosis
Margaret A. Titus
ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE
It is not available for individual sale.
This article is only available to subscribers.
It is not available for individual sale.
It is not available for individual sale.
The Journal of Eukaryotic Microbiology
Vol. 47 • No. 3
May 2000
Vol. 47 • No. 3
May 2000
Macropinocytosis
myosin I
myosin VIIa
phagocytosis