The Neuronal Cytoskeleton and Antisense Methodologies

Abstract

Neuronal cells undergo morphological and functional differentiation in vitro, similar to their counterparts in vivo. The morphological changes Involve neurite outgrowth and evolution of neuronal polarity, which differentiate between dendrites and axons. Underlying these morphological features are specialized cytoskeletal elements, the expression of which is developmentally regulated. In addition, several macromolecules are uniquely expressed in neuronal cells. These include enzymes, proteins that participate in ionic channels, and proteins of unknown functions. Many gene products operate in concert with the events leading to the establishment of mature neurons. The potential of antisense RNA to regulate gene expression has led to the development of strategies for the artificially regulated expression of genes using antisense RNA or oligodeoxynucleotides. Since viable mutants are not readily available for neuronal systems, this approach may provide an alternative means of reducing the cellular concentration of a specific target protein, thus allowing its effect on development and differentiation to be followed.