caveolinivälitteinen

Caveolinivälitteinen refers to a process mediated or facilitated by caveolins. Caveolins are a family of scaffolding proteins that are the principal structural proteins of caveolae. Caveolae are small, flask-shaped invaginations of the plasma membrane found in many types of cells, including endothelial cells, adipocytes, and muscle cells. These structures are involved in various cellular processes.

Caveolin-mediated transport is a form of endocytosis, a cellular process by which molecules are brought into the cell. Specifically, it is a mechanism for the uptake of certain molecules and particles across the cell membrane. This pathway is distinct from other endocytic pathways like clathrin-mediated endocytosis. Caveolin-mediated endocytosis plays a role in the internalization of various substances, including lipids, cholesterol, and certain pathogens.

Beyond transport, caveolins themselves are involved in a broader range of cellular functions due to their scaffolding role. They can interact with a multitude of signaling molecules, influencing pathways related to cell growth, differentiation, lipid metabolism, and mechanosensing. Therefore, "caveolinivälitteinen" can encompass any cellular event that is directly regulated or influenced by the presence and function of caveolin proteins and their associated caveolae. This includes signal transduction, membrane trafficking, and cellular structural organization. The precise mechanisms and cargo of caveolin-mediated processes are areas of ongoing research.