Migrasomes are a type of cellular organelle produced during cell migration that mediate migracytosis, a cell migration-dependent mechanism for releasing cellular contents. They are typically 0.5–3 μm in diameter and form at the intersections or tips of retraction fibers.
Discovery
Migrasomes were first discovered by Chinese researchers Liang Ma and Yu Li in 2014.
Formation
Migrasomes grow from retraction fibers of migrating cells and require sphingomyelin to form.
Development
Migrasomes help coordinate organ development by providing biochemical information as signalling organelles.
Communication
Migrasomes play an important role in the delivery of signalling molecules like chemokines, cytokines, and angiogenic factors.
Disease Relevance
Neutrophil-derived migrasomes play an essential role in coagulation at injury sites because they contain adhesion molecules and coagulation factors.