title: Requirements for the identification of dense-core granules.
abstract: Dense-core granules (DCGs), cytoplasmic organelles competent for regulated exocytosis, show considerable heterogeneity depending upon the specificity of their expressing cells--primarily neurons and neurosecretory cells. DCGs have been mainly identified by detecting their cargo molecules, often members of the granin family, and using conventional electron microscopy and immunocytochemistry. However, by a critical analysis of the various stages of DCG "life" within neurosecretory cells, we have highlighted several specific molecular and functional properties that are common to all these organelles. We propose that these properties be considered as strict requirements for the identification of DCGs.
authors.affiliation: Vita-Salute San Raffaele University and Scientific Institute San Raffaele, Department of Neuroscience and Immunology, Centre of Excellence in Physiopathology of Cell Differentiation, via Olgettina 58, 20132 Milan, Italy. meldolesi.jacopo@hsr.it
authors.forename: Jacopo
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Meldolesi
authors.forename: Evelina
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Chieregatti
authors.forename: Maria
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Luisa Malosio
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D015415:Biomarkers / Q000032:analysis; D005089:Exocytosis; D006801:Humans; D009474:Neurons / Q000166:cytology; D022142:Secretory Vesicles / Q000145:classification* / Q000502:physiology / Q000648:ultrastructure
chemical_list: D015415:Biomarkers