The capping of receptors for the epidermal growth factor and the participation of the cytoskeleton in this process in A-431 cells

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor capping results from the interaction between the receptors and polyvalent ligands in A-431 cells examined in suspension at 22 degrees C. Colocalization of actin and spectrin with the ligand-receptor complexes during the redistribution was shown using double immunofluorescence. The obtained data show that the cortical microfilaments are involved in capping. EGF receptors become associated with the Triton-insoluble cytoskeleton as a consequence of ligand binding. EGF-receptor capping is not sensitive to the action of cytochalasin B. Capping in A-431 cells is discussed as a new model for studying the redistribution of the ligand-receptor complex.