Axon Initial Segment Cytoskeleton: Architecture, Development, and Role in Neuron Polarity

Joint Authors

Jones, Steven L.
Svitkina, Tatyana M.

Source

Neural Plasticity

Issue

Vol. 2016, Issue 2016 (31 Dec. 2016), pp.1-19, 19 p.

Publisher

Hindawi Publishing Corporation

Publication Date

2016-07-17

Country of Publication

Egypt

No. of Pages

19

Main Subjects

Biology
Medicine

Abstract EN

The axon initial segment (AIS) is a specialized structure in neurons that resides in between axonal and somatodendritic domains.

The localization of the AIS in neurons is ideal for its two major functions: it serves as the site of action potential firing and helps to maintain neuron polarity.

It has become increasingly clear that the AIS cytoskeleton is fundamental to AIS functions.

In this review, we discuss current understanding of the AIS cytoskeleton with particular interest in its unique architecture and role in maintenance of neuron polarity.

The AIS cytoskeleton is divided into two parts, submembrane and cytoplasmic, based on localization, function, and molecular composition.

Recent studies using electron and subdiffraction fluorescence microscopy indicate that submembrane cytoskeletal components (ankyrin G, βIV-spectrin, and actin filaments) form a sophisticated network in the AIS that is conceptually similar to the polygonal/triangular network of erythrocytes, with some important differences.

Components of the AIS cytoplasmic cytoskeleton (microtubules, actin filaments, and neurofilaments) reside deeper within the AIS shaft and display structural features distinct from other neuronal domains.

We discuss how the AIS submembrane and cytoplasmic cytoskeletons contribute to different aspects of AIS polarity function and highlight recent advances in understanding their AIS cytoskeletal assembly and stability.

American Psychological Association (APA)

Jones, Steven L.& Svitkina, Tatyana M.. 2016. Axon Initial Segment Cytoskeleton: Architecture, Development, and Role in Neuron Polarity. Neural Plasticity،Vol. 2016, no. 2016, pp.1-19.
https://search.emarefa.net/detail/BIM-1113243

Modern Language Association (MLA)

Jones, Steven L.& Svitkina, Tatyana M.. Axon Initial Segment Cytoskeleton: Architecture, Development, and Role in Neuron Polarity. Neural Plasticity No. 2016 (2016), pp.1-19.
https://search.emarefa.net/detail/BIM-1113243

American Medical Association (AMA)

Jones, Steven L.& Svitkina, Tatyana M.. Axon Initial Segment Cytoskeleton: Architecture, Development, and Role in Neuron Polarity. Neural Plasticity. 2016. Vol. 2016, no. 2016, pp.1-19.
https://search.emarefa.net/detail/BIM-1113243

Data Type

Journal Articles

Language

English

Notes

Includes bibliographical references

Record ID

BIM-1113243