Identification of a novel, actin-rich structure, the actin nodule, in the early stages of platelet spreading.

Simon Calaminus, Steven Thomas, OJ McCarty, LM Machesky, Steve Watson

Research output: Contribution to journalArticle

37 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

BACKGROUND: During platelet spreading, the actin cytoskeleton undergoes marked changes, forming filopodia, lamellipodia and stress fibres. In the present study, we report the identification of a novel actin-rich structure, termed an actin nodule, which appears prior to lamellipodia and stress fibre formation. METHODS: Platelet spreading was monitored using human platelets and mouse GFP-actin platelets using real-time and end-point DIC, and fluorescent and electron microscopy (EM). RESULTS: We identified a small, novel actin structure, the actin nodule, in the early stages of adhesion and spreading, which we hypothesize to be a precursor of lamellipodia and stress fibres. Nodule formation shows an inverse correlation to Rho kinase and myosin-II activity, is independent of PI3-kinase, but dependent on Src kinase activity. Actin nodules contain multiple proteins, including Arp2/3, Fyn, Rac, and beta1- and beta3- integrins, but not Src. EM analysis revealed that actin filaments extend in all directions from the nodules. Actin nodules are present on multiple matrices, including fibrinogen, laminin and VWF + botrocetin. CONCLUSION: This work identifies a novel platelet actin structure, which we propose is a precursor to both lamellipodia and stress fibres and acts to drive platelet spreading.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1944-52
Number of pages9
JournalJournal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis
Volume6
Issue number11
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Nov 2008

Keywords

  • Src kinases
  • platelet spreading
  • Rho kinase
  • Arp2/3
  • actin cytoskeleton

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