Several cell types secrete small membranous vesicles that contain cell-specific collections of proteins, lipids, and genetic material. The function of these vesicles is to allow cell-to-cell signaling and the horizontal transfer of their cargo molecules. Here, we demonstrate that muscle cells secrete nano-sized vesicles and that their release increases during muscle differentiation. Analysis of these nanovesicles allowed us to characterize them as exosome-like particles and to define the potential role of the multifunctional protein Alix in their biogenesis.
Background: Alix participates in fundamental cellular processes, but how it is regulated remains unknown. Results: Alix is ubiquitinated by the Ozz-E3 ligase and participates in actin cytoskeleton remodeling, filopodia formation, and myoblast migration. Conclusion: Ozz influences Alix conformation and in turn the extent of ubiquitination in Alix. Significance: Ozz-E3 ligase regulates Alix concentration at sites where the actin cytoskeleton undergoes remodeling.
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