Lipid domains in the endocytic pathway

Abstract

Whereas endosomes connect with both exocytic and endocytic organelle via extensive lipid and protein traffic, each endosome has a distinct lipid and protein composition. Recent observations suggest that different lipid membrane domains exist even in the same endosome. These lipid domains, together with low pH milieu, may present a variety of micro-environments to cargo molecules. Evidence is accumulating which suggests that the alteration of these lipid microdomains may be involved in a number of pathological conditions.