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How does electric shock trigger cell fusion? Unveiling the mystery of electrofusion!
Cell fusion is a key biological process in which multiple mononuclear cells combine to form a multinucleated cell called a syncytium. This process is not only important in muscle cells, bone-absorbing cells and embryonic development, but also affects the differentiation and growth of many other cells. In this article, we will take a closer look at the principles, types, and potential future applications of electrofusion.
History of Cell Fusion
The study of cell fusion originated from observations made by Thulhu Schwann in 1839 during his microscopic studies. He noted that the cell walls and cavities of some cells fuse with each other, a finding that suggests the possibility of cell fusion. It wasn’t until 1960 that biologists first deliberately attempted to fuse cells, a process that used the Sendai virus to induce fusion of the outer membranes of mouse cells, ultimately creating a hybrid cell containing chromosomes from both cells.
This hybrid cell is called a "syngeneic cell" and opens a new chapter in cell fusion research.
Types of Cell Fusion
Cell fusion can be divided into two categories: homologous fusion and heterologous fusion. Homologous fusion occurs between cells of the same type, such as the fusion of bone resorbing cells. Heterogeneous fusion occurs between cells of different types, the most common example being the fusion of bone marrow-derived cells with solid organs. Regardless of the type, cell fusion produces a syncytium, which is formed by the fusion of the nuclei.
Cell fusion method
Currently, cell fusion mainly relies on four different methods, namely electrical fusion, polyvinyl alcohol fusion, Sendai virus-induced fusion and the newly introduced photothermal plasma fusion method.
Electrofusion is a technique based on high-frequency alternating current that fuses cells by bringing them into contact.
During the electrofusion process, a pulse voltage causes a change in the permeability of the cell membrane, followed by fusion of the cell membranes. After cell fusion is complete, the cytoplasm becomes one, but the nuclei remain separate.
Therapeutic potential of cell fusionIn modern medicine, with the scarcity of donated organs and tissues, cell fusion has gained attention as an alternative. Scientists are exploring the ability of cell fusion to repair tissue damage and to find the most suitable cells to achieve therapeutic effects. However, many challenges remain, such as finding the best way to introduce cells, increasing the likelihood of cell fusion, and ensuring that the fused cells can function properly.
The role of cell fusion in plantsAlthough fusion of plant cells occurs less frequently, it still occurs under certain circumstances. Plant cells are surrounded by cell walls, so before fusion, the cell walls change, becoming thinner or forming bridge structures to facilitate fusion.
Association of cell fusion with cancer progression
Cell fusion has become one of the hot topics in cancer research in recent years. When multiple types of differentiated cells fuse, polyploid cells may be generated. The genetic makeup of these cells is unstable, which can lead to the development of cancer. In addition, the metastasis process of cancer cells is also closely related to cell fusion, which enables cancer cells to have stronger migration capabilities and fuels the spread of cancer.
Cell Fusion in Microorganisms
Cell fusion has also been observed in fungi, amoebas, and some bacteria. In the sexual cycle of fungi, cells share cytoplasm by fusion, forming a shared syncytium. In bacteria, this fusion may involve more complex sexual behaviors, such as spontaneous gamete fusion.
Other Applications
Cell fusion has a wide range of applications in basic scientific research, including studies on the control of cell division and gene expression, investigations of malignant transformation, viral replication, and the production of monoclonal antibodies. These studies demonstrate the importance of cell fusion in exploring how life works.
As technology advances, how will the future potential of cell fusion change the face of medical and biological research?
