Photoreceptor discs form through peripherin-dependent suppression of ciliary ectosome release.

ABSTRACT: The primary cilium is a highly conserved organelle housing specialized molecules responsible for receiving and processing extracellular signals. A recently discovered property shared across many cilia is the ability to release small vesicles called ectosomes, which are used for exchanging protein and genetic material among cells. In this study, we report a novel role for ciliary ectosomes in building the elaborate photoreceptor outer segment filled with hundreds of tightly packed "disc" membranes. We demonstrate that the photoreceptor cilium has an innate ability to release massive amounts of ectosomes. However, this process is suppressed by the disc-specific protein peripherin, which enables retained ectosomes to be morphed into discs. This new function of peripherin is performed independ

SUBMITTER: Salinas RY 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5412563 | biostudies-literature | 2017 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature