Cytoskeletal Mechanisms of Axonal Contractility.

ABSTRACT: Mechanotransduction is likely to be an important mechanism of signaling in thin, elongated cells such as neurons. Maintenance of prestress or rest tension may facilitate mechanotransduction in these cells. In recent years, functional roles for mechanical tension in neuronal development and physiology are beginning to emerge, but the cellular mechanisms regulating neurite tension remain poorly understood. Active contraction of neurites is a potential mechanism of tension regulation. In this study, we have explored cytoskeletal mechanisms mediating active contractility of neuronal axons. We have developed a simple assay in which we evaluate contraction of curved axons upon trypsin-mediated detachment. We show that curved axons undergo contraction and straighten upon deadhesion. Axonal straig

SUBMITTER: Mutalik SP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6104292 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature