Abstract
BackgroundProper neuronal function depends on forming three primary subcellular compartments: axons, dendrites, and soma. Each compartment has a specialized function (the axon to send information, dendrites to receive information, and the soma is where most cellular components are produced). In mammalian neurons, each primary compartment has distinctive molecular and morphological features, as well as smaller domains, such as the axon initial segment, that have more specialized functions. How neuronal subcellular compartments are established and maintained is not well understood. Genetic studies in Drosophila have provided insight into other areas of neurobiology, but it is not known whether flies are a good system in which to study neuronal polarity as a comprehensive analysis of Drosophila neuronal subcellular organization has not been performed.ResultsHere we use new and previously characterized markers to examine Drosophila neuronal compartments. We find that: axons and dendrites can accumulate different microtubule-binding proteins; protein synthesis machinery is concentrated in the cell body; pre- and post-synaptic sites localize to distinct regions of the neuron; and specializations similar to the initial segment are present. In addition, we track EB1-GFP dynamics and determine microtubules in axons and dendrites have opposite polarity.ConclusionWe conclude that Drosophila will be a powerful system to study the establishment and maintenance of neuronal compartments.
Highlights
Proper neuronal function depends on forming three primary subcellular compartments: axons, dendrites, and soma
Axon and dendrite microtubules have different properties and orientation To determine whether microtubule-binding proteins can be preferentially localized to axons and dendrites in flies, we examined exogenous and endogenous microtubulebinding proteins in the Drosophila larval brain
The two exogenous proteins we examined were: tau-green fluorescent protein and nod-yellow fluorescent protein
Summary
Proper neuronal function depends on forming three primary subcellular compartments: axons, dendrites, and soma. Each compartment has a specialized function (the axon to send information, dendrites to receive information, and the soma is where most cellular components are produced). Each primary compartment has distinctive molecular and morphological features, as well as smaller domains, such as the axon initial segment, that have more specialized functions. Since individual neurons were first observed, axons and dendrites have been recognized as distinct compartments. Dendrites were proposed to receive information, and axons to transmit it to other sites. Some general morphological features distinguish axons and dendrites. Dendrites are typically shorter than axons, taper as they leave the cell body, and decrease in size as they branch. The diameter of axons is relatively constant, and does not decrease with branching [1].
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
