Membrane dynamics in intercellular communication: Insights provided by the study of Prominin-1 (CD133), a cholesterol-binding membrane glycoprotein

Intercellular communication is crucial for the development and homeostasis of multicellular organisms. In recent years, increasing attention has focused on communication mechanisms mediated by membranous structures such as extracellular vesicles (EVs), tunneling nanotubes, migrasomes, and other membrane bridges. Studies on the pentaspan membrane glycoprotein prominin-1 (CD133), along with its protein and lipid partners, have shed light on the molecular organization and dynamics of membrane protrusions, particularly microvilli and primary cilia. These prominent structures, as well as transient ones such as midbodies and cell extremities, have emerged as sources of both small and large EVs. Given the broad expression of prominin-1 in stem cells, differentiated cells, and cancer cells, and the presence of prominin-1+ EVs in various physiological fluids, a range of biological functions has been attributed to them, including the regulation of stem cell fate. This seminar will explore the roles of prominin-1 in membrane architecture and intercellular communication under both physiological and pathological conditions.