Directional cell movement through tissues is controlled by exosome secretion

Directional cell movement through tissues is critical for multiple biological processes and requires maintenance of polarity in the face of complex environmental cues. Here we use intravital imaging to demonstrate that secretion of exosomes from late endosomes is required for directionally persistent and efficient in vivo movement of cancer cells. Inhibiting exosome secretion or biogenesis leads to defective tumour cell migration associated with increased formation of unstable protrusions and excessive directional switching. In vitro rescue experiments with purified exosomes and matrix coating identify adhesion assembly as a critical exosome function that promotes efficient cell motility. Live-cell imaging…

• AH
  American Heart Association

  Award: DK20593
• VU
  Vanderbilt University

  Awards: DK59637, DK20593, DK58404, CA68485, EY08126, HD15052
• NI
  National Institutes of Health

  Awards: CA68485, R01 CA163592, DK58404, HD15052, DK59637, DK20593, U19 CA179514
• NC
  National Cancer Institute

  Awards: DK20593, U19 CA179514, HD15052, EY08126, DK58404, CA68485, CA179514, DK59637, CA143081