macropinocytóza

Macropinocytosis is a type of endocytosis, a process by which cells engulf external material to form endocytic vesicles. Unlike clathrin-mediated endocytosis, which involves the formation of small vesicles, macropinocytosis results in the formation of large, fluid-filled vesicles. This process is driven by the actin cytoskeleton and is characterized by the formation of a ruffled membrane that extends from the cell surface and then retracts to form the vesicle.

Macropinocytosis is a non-specific process, meaning that it can engulf a wide variety of materials, including bacteria, viruses, and other particles. It is often induced by certain stimuli, such as growth factors, cytokines, or physical forces like fluid shear stress. The vesicles formed by macropinocytosis can fuse with lysosomes, leading to the degradation of the engulfed material, or they can be recycled back to the cell surface.

Macropinocytosis plays a role in various cellular processes, including cell migration, wound healing, and immune response. It is also involved in the uptake of pathogens, making it a target for certain antimicrobial therapies. The regulation of macropinocytosis is complex and involves multiple signaling pathways, including those mediated by Rho GTPases and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K).

In summary, macropinocytosis is a type of endocytosis that results in the formation of large vesicles. It is a non-specific process that can engulf a variety of materials and is regulated by multiple signaling pathways. It plays a role in various cellular processes and is a target for certain antimicrobial therapies.