Migrasomes: a new organelle of migrating cells

Abstract

Cell migration is a multi-step process that involves the coordinated action of signaling networks, cytoskeletal dynamics and vesicular trafficking, leading to protrusion and adhesion at the leading edge of cells and contraction and detachment at their rear. In a recent paper in Cell Research, Ma et al. describe the biogenesis of a new exosome-like organelle--named migrasomes--that derive from retraction fibers at the rear of migrating cells and their potential roles in inter-cellular signaling.

Figure 1

Migrasomes form within retraction fibers emerging from the trailing edge of migrating cells. They are released and deposited on the substrate as the fibers collapse. Migrasomes may represent a vector for inter-cellular communication as they can be engulfed by trailing cells, providing guidance cues or other information.