Multiple cell-surface receptors and endocytic uptake pathways

The term 'multiple cell-surface receptors and endocytic uptake pathways' refers to a collective set of biological mechanisms rather than a single, discrete molecular target. These pathways involve various membrane-bound proteins that facilitate the binding and internalization of extracellular ligands, nutrients, and signaling molecules through processes such as clathrin-mediated endocytosis, caveolae-mediated endocytosis, and macropinocytosis (Doherty & McMahon, 2009). In a therapeutic context, these pathways are often discussed regarding the delivery of complex biologics, nanoparticles, and viral vectors, which may utilize several different receptors simultaneously to gain entry into host cells (Bareford & Swaan, 2007). For instance, pathogens like SARS-CoV-2 exploit multiple receptors and endocytic routes to infect diverse cell types (Bayati et al., 2021). Because this term describes a broad physiological process involving numerous distinct proteins, it is considered an aggregate category rather than a specific therapeutic target for drug development. Understanding these pathways is crucial for optimizing the intracellular delivery of therapeutics and predicting potential off-target effects.

Other names

Cell-surface receptorsEndocytic pathwaysReceptor-mediated endocytosisCellular uptake mechanismsInternalization pathways

Facilitation of cellular entry and internalization of ligands via receptor-mediated or fluid-phase endocytic processes (Doherty & McMahon, 2009).