Molecular roles of Myo1c function in lipid raft exocytosis

Abstract

Lipid rafts are highly dynamic membrane subdomains enriched in specific protein and lipid components that create specialized ‘organizing’ platforms essential for an array of important cellular functions. The role of lipid rafts in membrane trafficking involves the constant remodelling of the plasma membrane through membrane uptake and balanced exocytosis of intracellular membranes. Our lab has identified the first motor protein, myosin 1c (Myo1c) involved in driving the recycling of lipid-raft enriched membranes from the perinuclear recycling compartment to the cell surface. This newly discovered role for Myo1c in lipid raft exocytosis is crucial for cell spreading, migration and pathogen entry; key cellular processes that require cell surface expansion and plasticity. Here we present a model suggesting Myo1c’s possible molecular functions in lipid raft recycling and discuss its wider implications for important cellular functions.