Actin and microtubule-based cytoskeletal cues direct polarized targeting of proteins in neurons

Sci Signal. 2009 Aug 11;2(83):pe49. doi: 10.1126/scisignal.283pe49.

Abstract

Neuronal proteins are transported to either the axon or dendrites through the action of kinesin motors; however, understanding of how cytoskeletal elements steer these cargo-motor complexes to one compartment or the other has remained elusive. Three recent developments-the discovery of an actin-based filter within the axon initial segment, the identification of the pivotal role played by myosin motors in dendritic targeting, and the determination of the properties of a kinesin motor that cause it to prefer axonal to dendritic microtubules-have now provided a structural framework for understanding polarized targeting in neurons.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Actins / physiology*
  • Animals
  • Cell Polarity / physiology*
  • Cytoskeleton / chemistry
  • Humans
  • Kinesins
  • Microtubules / physiology*
  • Nerve Tissue Proteins / metabolism*
  • Neurons / chemistry
  • Neurons / metabolism
  • Neurons / ultrastructure
  • Protein Transport

Substances

  • Actins
  • Nerve Tissue Proteins
  • Kinesins