Expression of Membrane Raft‐Associated Proteins During Mechanical Injury of 1321N1 Human Astrocytoma Cells

Abstract

Glial cells (GC) are the most abundant cellular element in the nervous system. Astrocytes have gained prominence as mediators of acute and persistent inflammatory reactions in the CNS, such as those occuring after spinal cord injury and Alzheimer's disease (AD). GC responses can be both protective and degenerative in nature, depending on their spatiotemporal chemical environment. Thus, understanding reactive gliosis and the molecular mechanisms underlying these responses, and what promotes their glioprotective roles is imperative. Therefore, we have implemented the use of an in vitro Mechanical Strain Injury Model System using 1321N1 human astrocytoma cells. The stable expression of the P2Y2 nucleotide receptor in normally P2‐devoid 1321N1 cells promotes cell survival. Also, data suggests that this receptor interacts with the membrane‐raft protein cav‐1 during signaling/trafficking. Furthermore, the late‐onset AD marker protein sorLA, has also been shown to be a partner of cav‐1 in glia. Therefore, we have hypothesized that the glioprotective actions of both P2Y2 and sorLA are intimately linked to their expression and trafficking via cav‐1 positive membrane rafts micro domains. NAM is supported by the NIGMS‐MBRS‐RISE Program GM61838 at the UPR‐MSC.