anterograde axonal transport

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The directed movement of organelles or molecules along microtubules from the cell body toward the cell periphery in nerve cell axons. [ISBN:0815316194]

Anterograde axonal transport is a critical cellular process responsible for the movement of essential materials from the cell body, or soma, of a neuron to the axon terminal. This journey involves a complex interplay of molecular machinery and energy expenditure, ensuring the delivery of vital components necessary for neuronal function and communication.

The process begins within the soma, where proteins, lipids, organelles, and other macromolecules are synthesized and packaged into specialized vesicles. These vesicles serve as transport containers, carrying their cargo along the intricate network of microtubules that form the cytoskeleton of the axon.

Microtubules act as tracks for motor proteins, which are responsible for propelling the vesicles along the axon. Two key motor proteins involved in anterograde transport are kinesin and dynein. Kinesin, a plus-end-directed motor protein, moves vesicles towards the axon terminal, while dynein, a minus-end-directed motor protein, primarily transports materials from the axon terminal back to the soma.

Kinesin binds to the vesicle and "walks" along the microtubule using ATP hydrolysis to provide energy for its movement. This process is highly regulated, with various signaling pathways controlling the activity and directionality of kinesin and dynein.

As the vesicle travels along the axon, it encounters various checkpoints and sorting stations. These stations ensure that the cargo is delivered to the correct destination, be it the synaptic terminal or other cellular compartments within the axon.

Upon reaching the axon terminal, the vesicle fuses with the presynaptic membrane, releasing its contents into the synaptic cleft. These contents may include neurotransmitters, signaling molecules, enzymes, or structural proteins, all crucial for neuronal communication and function.

Anterograde axonal transport is essential for the maintenance and growth of axons, the formation of synapses, and the delivery of neurotransmitters required for signal transmission. Disruptions to this process can lead to various neurological disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

In summary, anterograde axonal transport is a complex and highly regulated process that ensures the delivery of essential materials from the neuron's soma to the axon terminal, supporting neuronal function and communication.'
"

Proteins (1)

Compounds (1)