Phosphatidylserine exposure by apoptotic cells: a phylogenetically conserved mechanism

Stefan M. van den Eijnde, Lenard Boshart, Eric H. Baehrecke, Chris P.M. Reutelingsperger, Christl Vermeij-Keers

Research output: Chapter/Conference proceedingChapterAcademic

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Abstract

Tolerance of the existence of the individual cell in multicellular organisms is mediated by the distribution of the various phospholipid species across the bilayer of the plasma membrane. This concept arises from in vitro studies, which show that cellsurface exposed phosphatidylserine on ageing erythrocytes and apoptotic leukocytes triggers elimination of these cells by phagocytosis. In contrast, blood cells are inert in this respect when this aminophospholipid is predominantly residing in the plasma membrane leaflet facing the cytoplasm. We have studied the in vivo distribution of cell surface-exposed phosphatidylserine by injecting biotinylated AnxV, a Ca2+dependent phosphatidylserine binding protein, into viabIe mouse and chick embryos and Drosophila pupae. The apparent binding of (Annexin V) to cells that were present in regions of developmental cell death and that were exhibiting the morphology which is characteristic of apoptosis indicates that phosphatidylserine exposure by apoptotic cells is a phylogenetically conserved mechanism.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationPharmaceutical intervention in apoptotic pathways
EditorsJ.F. Nagelkerke, J.H. van Dierendonck, M.H.M. Noteborn
Place of PublicationAmsterdam
Pages63-74
Number of pages12
Publication statusPublished - 1998

Publication series

SeriesVerhandelingen (KNAW); Afd. Natuurkunde
NumberDeel 100
Volumetweede reeks

Research programs

  • EMC MGC-02-50-02-A
  • EMC MGC-02-96-01

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