Axonal Growth, Synaptogenesis and tropism

Question 1

Describe neuronal polarization (what it is and how it works)

Answer 1

polarization: first step in neuronal identity and the formation of connections

round (neurite)
extends multiple processes and become multipolar
one of these processes become the axon–>polarity decided
at the end of axon-growth cone

Question 2

What is a neurite?

Answer 2

round, processless neuron

Question 3

Why is the formation of the axon important?

Answer 3

determines polarity of neuron

Question 4

Describe the structure of the growth cone. What is its function?

Why is it called a decision maker?

Answer 4

specialized motile structure at the tip of an extending axon; contains lamellapodium (actin and microtubules that fan out at tip of axon)
filopodia: fine processes extending out from lamellapodium

explores EC environment, determines direction of groeth and guides extension of axon;

decision maker in axon pathfinding