Molecular mechanisms of membrane fusion: steps during phospholipid and exocytotic membrane fusion.
Exocytosis is considered as four separate steps: adhesion, fusion/pore formation, pore widening, and content discharge. Experiments on both synthetic and natural membranes are presented to show each of these steps. Major differences are seen in the two fusing systems. These differences are discussed in terms of molecular mechanisms of fusion.
Zimmerberg
J
J
NIDDK, Bethesda, MD 20892.
D000818:Animals; D002448:Cell Adhesion; D002462:Cell Membrane / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D005089:Exocytosis; D008563:Membrane Lipids / Q000502:physiology; D008567:Membranes, Artificial
D008563:Membrane Lipids; D008567:Membranes, Artificial