Microsomal triacylglycerol transfer protein (MTP) is required cell autonomously to expand tracheal lumen in Drosophila

The Drosophila tracheal system has been a useful model to dissect the molecular mechanisms controlling the assembly and expansion of tubular organs. We have identified Microsomal triacylglycerol transfer protein (MTP) as a new player involved in the lumen expansion in unicellular tubes. MTP is an Endoplasmic Reticulum resident protein that can transfer triglycerides and phospholipids between membranes in vitro. MTP lipid transfer activity is crucial for the assembly and secretion of apoB family lipoproteins, which are carriers of lipids between different tissues. Here we describe an unexpected role of MTP in tracheal development, which we postulate to be independent of its known function in lipoprotein secretion. We propose that in tracheal cells MTP is involved in regulation of de novo apical membrane delivery to the existing lumen and thus promotes proper expansion of the larval tracheal system.