What Roles Do Caveolae Play in Cellular Functions?
Caveolae are multifunctional structures that play significant roles in:
- Signal Transduction: They act as platforms for the assembly of signaling complexes, thus modulating various signaling pathways. - Lipid Regulation: Caveolae are involved in the regulation of lipid composition and distribution within the membrane. - Endocytosis: They facilitate the internalization of specific molecules and pathogens. - Mechanoprotection: Caveolae help protect cells from mechanical stress by buffering membrane tension.
