This book proposes an updated view of the current knowledge of the molecular and cellular mechanisms ensuring axon growth and guidance. The introductory chapter will remind the readers of all the features of a growth cone and the mechanisms controlling its growth. >From there, one enters a fabulous journey with a growth cone, a Tom Thumb story filled with molecular encounters and complex interactions leading to one of the most fantastic developmental achievements: the nervous system wiring. The journey starts with a description of the classical guidance signals such as the netrins, the semaphorins, the ephrins or the Slit family. The question of the exact definition of a guidance signal is addressed in a chapter which discusses whether neurotrophic factors can be considered as guidance cues. This complex question is also considered in a chapter presenting the role of adhesion molecules during axon guidance and the report of compelling evidence for a guidance effect of neurotransmitters. INDICE: Molecular Mechanisms of Axonal Growth. Netrins and their Receptors. Receptors and Ephrin Ligands in Axon Guidance. Role of Semaphorins during Axon Growth and Guidance. Slits and their Receptors. Neurotrophic Factors: Are they Axon Guidance Molecules?- The Role of Cell Adhesion Molecules in Axon Growth and Guidance. Neurotransmitters and the development of Neuronal Cir cuits. The Hedgehog, TGF-®/BMP and WNT Families of Morphogens in Axon Guidance. The Role of Cyclic Nucleotides in Axon Guidance. Membrane Lipid Rafts and their role in Axon Guidance. The Role of Glial Cells in Axon Guidance, Fasciculation and Targeting.
- ISBN: 978-0-387-76714-7
- Editorial: Springer
- Encuadernacion: Cartoné
- Páginas: 185
- Fecha Publicación: 01/02/2008
- Nº Volúmenes: 1
- Idioma: Inglés