Building the bridges: molecular mechanisms of tunneling nanotube formation

Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are thin, actin-based conduits that provide direct cytoplasmic continuity between cells, enabling the transfer of ions, proteins, organelles, and pathogens. Although discovered nearly two decades ago, the molecular mechanisms that govern TNT biogenesis are only beginning to be resolved. Recent studies have highlighted two main formation modes: filopodia-like protrusion and cell dislodgement. Both likely involve similar molecular steps, but in different sequences. These