Alteration of cytoskeletal organization during axonal elongation and its role in regulating the growth process

Abstract

The composition and organization of the axonal cytoskeleton vary from neuron to neuron and the ability of a nerve to regenerate may, at least in part, depend on the pre-existing nature of the cytoskeleton. In axons, where the cytoskeletal elements are loosely organized enough material may be mobilized after an injury to allow elongation to proceed. However, if microtubules and neurofilaments interact closely with each other, it may not be possible for enough material to be released from or to migrate through a complex network. As a consequence material is not provided to the growing tip and elongation cannot proceed beyond the initial sprouting.