Axon Outgrowth

Synonyms

Axon elongation; Axogenesis; Neurite extension

Definition

The axon is the crucial output machinery of neurons. Along this cable, electrical signals, called action potentials, are propagated and transmitted to other cells via a synapse. Axon a outgrowth is an important developmental process, in which the axon is projected from the cell body (soma) toward specific target cells. Both intrinsic and extrinsic factors precisely control this process to make sure that the nervous system builds up the correct wiring pattern of axons, because the neural network is fundamental to the complex functioning of the nervous system. The Growth Cone at the distal tip of axons plays a primary role in axon outgrowth, sensing extrinsic factors and determining the direction of the growth. Neurite is a special term referring to a fiber that has outgrown in culture, where the distinction between axons and dendrites is not necessarily clear.

Characteristics

Quantitative Description