Methods for monitoring lysosomal morphology

Methods Cell Biol. 2015:126:1-19. doi: 10.1016/bs.mcb.2014.10.018. Epub 2015 Jan 19.

Abstract

Lysosomes are abundant organelles best known for their crucial role in macromolecule turnover. Lysosome dysfunction features in several diseases exemplified by the lysosomal storage disorders and is often associated with marked changes in lysosome structure. Lysosomal morphology may therefore serve as a sensitive readout of endocytic well-being. Here we describe methods for monitoring lysosome morphology in fixed and live cells using fluorescent probes and electron microscopy.

Keywords: Electron microscopy; Endocytosis; Fluorescence microscopy; Immunofluorescence; LAMP1; Lysosome; Membrane traffic; NAADP; Two-pore channels.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Cells, Cultured
  • Cryoelectron Microscopy
  • Fluorescent Antibody Technique, Indirect
  • Fluorescent Dyes / chemistry
  • Humans
  • Lysosomes / ultrastructure*
  • Microscopy, Electron
  • Microscopy, Electron, Transmission
  • Microscopy, Fluorescence
  • Organelle Shape
  • Single-Cell Analysis
  • Staining and Labeling
  • Tissue Fixation

Substances

  • Fluorescent Dyes