Molecular Control of Organelle Shape and Identity in the Endomembrane System

Dear Colleagues,

One striking observation in eukaryotic cells is that, over time, their organelles maintain a remarkably constant size and shape despite high levels of biochemical activity. In the early secretory pathway for example, proteins synthesised in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) but which are destined for secretion, are constantly packaged into membrane transport carriers that leave the ER and are directed towards the Golgi complex. The fact that the ER maintains its overall size, shape and volume tells us that this organelle must receive—from the Golgi complex—an equivalent amount of membrane per unit time. Indeed, if all the organelles in the endomembrane system are to retain their functionality, such counter-balancing of membrane flow must exist between all compartments that communicate with each other. This control of membrane identity and function is likely to be regulated through a variety of factors, including the activity of proteins and lipids resident in each compartment, as well as through long range signalling events across the cell, and linkage to the cytoskeleton. What is also clear is that perturbation of transport pathways between organelles, manifested in a number of diseases, results in aberrant organelle function and morphology. In this Special Issue entitled "Molecular Control of Organelle Shape and Identity in the Endomembrane System", we are seeking novel research or review articles highlighting the variety of machinery and regulatory mechanisms used in membrane traffic, with specific regard to how membrane flux is controlled and how it determines the identity and function of organelles. Additionally relevant is how dysfunctional trafficking events has implications in disease. We look forward to receiving your contributions to this exciting Special Issue.

Prof. Dr. Jeremy C. Simpson
Guest Editor

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