Abstract
The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is the largest organelle in the cell, and its functions have been studied for decades. The past several years have provided novel insights into the existence of distinct domains between the ER and other organelles, known as membrane contact sites (MCSs). At these contact sites, organelle membranes are closely apposed and tethered, but do not fuse. Here, various protein complexes can work in concert to perform specialized functions such as binding, sensing and transferring molecules, as well as engaging in organelle biogenesis and dynamics. This Review describes the structure and functions of MCSs, primarily focusing on contacts of the ER with mitochondria and endosomes.
Publication types
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Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
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Review
MeSH terms
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Animals
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Biological Transport
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Calcium / metabolism
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Cell Membrane / chemistry
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Cell Membrane / metabolism
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Cell Membrane / ultrastructure
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Endoplasmic Reticulum / chemistry
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Endoplasmic Reticulum / metabolism*
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Endoplasmic Reticulum / ultrastructure*
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Endosomes / chemistry
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Endosomes / metabolism
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Endosomes / ultrastructure
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Eukaryotic Cells / metabolism*
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Eukaryotic Cells / ultrastructure
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Gene Expression Regulation
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Humans
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Lipid Metabolism
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Membrane Proteins / chemistry
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Membrane Proteins / genetics
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Membrane Proteins / metabolism*
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Mitochondria / chemistry
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Mitochondria / metabolism
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Mitochondria / ultrastructure
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Mitochondrial Membranes / chemistry
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Mitochondrial Membranes / metabolism
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Mitochondrial Membranes / ultrastructure
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Organelle Biogenesis
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Saccharomyces cerevisiae / genetics
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Saccharomyces cerevisiae / metabolism*
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Saccharomyces cerevisiae / ultrastructure*
Substances
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Membrane Proteins
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Calcium