Subcellular Social Networks: Inter-Organelle Contact sites
BCH 2024H
Eukaryotic cells are defined by the membrane bound organelles that sub-compartmentalize specialized biochemical reactions required for life. The membrane of these organelles has a unique composition that is required to regulate both protein recruitment and function. For this reason, much focus has been placed on the cellular mechanisms of transporting and distributing lipids for the formation these distinct membrane compartments. The best known mechanism is the vesicular trafficking model. However, this mechanism is energetically taxing and relatively slow for some cellular processes such as signaling between organelles. An alternative and more rapid means of transporting lipids and small molecules between organelles is through the formation of membrane contact sites (MCS) where two distinct organelles are closely apposed (10-30 nm).
First described some 50 years ago, only recently has significant progress been made in our understanding of MCS. Recent studies have demonstrated that MCS are found between many organelles and form both transient and long-lived connections that play a critical role in maintaining cellular homeostasis. MCS sites allow the movement of lipids such as ceramide, cholesterol and phosphatidylinositol against a concentration gradient to establish a polarized lipid distribution between the different sub-cellular compartments. These differential distributions of lipids are essential not only for the distinction of different organelles but for their function.
In this course, we will explore current literature on the mechanisms of MCS formation, the nature of small molecule exchange between organelles, and its contribution to cell homeostasis and viability. We will also examine how some pathogens can commandeer MCS for their own propagation. Limitations of current approaches and novel methodologies to address MCS function will also be addressed.
This course will allow students to drive the content of course by selecting topics in MCS.
In the first half of the course, the students will present a research article.
During the week break the student will be able to select a topic in MCS and present it to class in a lecture style presentation.
A 4-5 page write-up of their selective topic will be required.
Course Next Offered
March - April 2019
Course Time and Location
Start date: Thursday March 28
End date: Thursday May 9. No class on April 25th
Day(s) of the week: Thursdays
Time: 10-12
Location: PGCRL. Room:TBA
Enrollment Limit
Yes — 8
Method of Student Evaluation
25% Journal presentation
25% Class Participation
25% Lecture by student
25% Short review (based on lecture topic)
This course will allow students to drive the content of course by selecting topics in MCS. In the first half of the course, the students will present a research article. During the week break the student will be able to select a topic in MCS and present it to class in a lecture style presentation. A 4-5 page write-up of their selective topic will be required.
Coordinator
Peter K. Kim
The Hospital for Sick Children
Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning
686 Bay Street, Rm. 19.9708
416-813-5983
pkim@sickkids.ca
William S. Trimble
SickKids Research Institute
PGCRL Rm 199716
686 Bay Street
416-813-6889
wtrimble@sickkids.ca