Schlegel lab

Cells maintain an asymmetric distribution of phospholipids across their plasma membrane via the aminophospholipid translocase that selectively transports phosphatidylserine (PS) and phosphatidylethanolamine from the outer to the inner leaflet of the bilayer.  We identified the translocase as a subfamily IV P-type ATPase and are studying the substrates transported by and the physiological functions of other members of the subfamily, in yeast, nematodes and mammals.  This phospholipid asymmetry is lost in cells undergoing apoptosis, and PS becomes exposed on the cell surface where it serves as a recognition signal for macrophages to engulf and destroy the apoptotic cells.  We are interested in determining what receptors on macrophages are responsible for recognition and signaling.