Journey to the Center of the Cell: Role of the Receptosome

• DOI: 10.1126/science.6170111
• Publication Date: 2006-10-05T17:45:58Z
• Authors: Ira H. Pastan; Mark C. Willingham
• Keywords: Internalization; Cell membrane; Cell surface receptor

Fibroblasts contain a specific internalization pathway that carries hormones as well some proteins and viruses from the cell surface to interior. Initially, ligands bind mobile receptors are randomly distributed on surface. Next ligand-receptor complexes trapped concentrated in specialized regions of membrane termed bristle-coated pits. From pit smooth-walled vesicle containing ligand forms Because its role receptor-mediated endocytosis, this has been "receptosome."