tertiary granule lumen

Definition

Target type: cellularcomponent

Any membrane-enclosed lumen that is part of a tertiary granule. [GO_REF:0000064, GOC:TermGenie, PMID:23650620]

The tertiary granule lumen is a subcellular compartment found within the cytoplasm of certain immune cells, specifically neutrophils and eosinophils. These granules are characterized by their late stage of development, representing the final stage of lysosome maturation. The lumen of these granules is a distinct space enclosed by a membrane and houses a diverse array of enzymes, antimicrobial proteins, and other effector molecules essential for the cell's defense functions. The granule's contents are packaged in a highly organized manner, with the membrane acting as a barrier to prevent premature release and maintain the integrity of the cell.

**Detailed Description:**

* **Location:** Tertiary granules are located within the cytoplasm of neutrophils and eosinophils, specifically within the cell's secretory pathway. They are distinct from primary and secondary granules, which are formed earlier in the development of these cells.
* **Structure:** The tertiary granule lumen is enclosed by a single membrane, which separates it from the surrounding cytoplasm. The membrane is composed of phospholipids and various proteins, including those involved in signal transduction and membrane trafficking.
* **Contents:** The tertiary granule lumen contains a specialized assortment of enzymes, antimicrobial proteins, and other effector molecules, many of which are not found in primary or secondary granules. Some notable components include:
* **Hydrolytic Enzymes:** These enzymes, such as proteases, glycosidases, and lipases, play a role in breaking down and digesting foreign substances.
* **Antimicrobial Proteins:** Examples include lactoferrin, lysozyme, and defensins, which target and neutralize invading pathogens.
* **Other Effector Molecules:** These may include cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors that contribute to the inflammatory response and tissue repair.
* **Function:** Tertiary granules, along with their lumen's contents, contribute significantly to the innate immune response, particularly during inflammation and infection. The release of their contents through exocytosis allows the cell to:
* **Eliminate pathogens:** The enzymes and antimicrobial proteins within the lumen effectively target and destroy invading microorganisms.
* **Modulate inflammation:** The cytokines and chemokines released from the lumen contribute to the recruitment and activation of other immune cells at the site of infection.
* **Facilitate tissue repair:** The enzymes and growth factors within the tertiary granule lumen promote the healing and regeneration of damaged tissues.

**Summary:** The tertiary granule lumen is a crucial component of neutrophils and eosinophils, serving as a storage depot for a diverse arsenal of defensive molecules. Its contents are essential for the effective elimination of pathogens, modulation of inflammation, and the restoration of tissue integrity during the immune response.'
"

Proteins (32)

Compounds (257)