Year: 1984
Type: article
Abstract: Is Specialized to Support the Elongate Shape of NeuritesThe cytoplasmic matrix is often highly specialized, making it possible to clearly relate particularaspects ofthe cytoplasmic matrix to the specialized functions of cells .For example, in striated muscle cells the contractile components of the cytoplasmic matrix dominate the cell structurally and functionally.Neurons are another example of cells in which specializations of structure and function can be clearly related to particular aspects of the cytoplasmic matrix (36, 37).The primary function of neurons is to convey information from one location in the organism to another.Pathways for information transfer in the nervous system are provided by specialized neuronal extensions, the axons and the dendrites .Axons, in particular, are specialized to convey information over very long distances, meters in some cases.Accordingly, in the axon the cytoplasmic matrix is specialized to generate and support the extremely elongate shape ofthe axon during development, regeneration, and maturity.To generate and maintain the great volume of cytoplasm within the axon, neurons must produce tremendous amounts of protein (32).Essentially all axonal proteins are synthesized in the neuron cell body and then conveyed into the axon by axonal transport, which provides a lifeline for the axon and its terminus (25,36).Axonal transport is a process that is initiated when the axon first develops and that continues throughout the life of the neuron.To meet the needs of large animals, which require long axons, axonal transport has become one of the most highly developed mechanisms for the intracellular transport of materials in metazoan cells . Studies of Axonal Transport with Radioisotopes Reveal Processes at the Microscopic LevelAlthough axonal transport occurs on a scale that is properly measured in micrometers, it is possible to study it by macroscopic methods in which the unit used for measurement is the millimeter (12).Axons are often grouped together in parallel bundles, and in long nerves a bundle of axons may extend for 10 cm or more.Axonal transport can be studied in these long axons by radioisotopic labeling methods .Standard radioistopic labeling methods can be employed to study the synthesis, transport, and metabolism of axonal 212s
Source: The Journal of Cell Biology
Authors: R J Lasek, J A Garner, S T Brady
Institution: Case Western Reserve University
Language: English
Subfield: Cell Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W1992888811