Neurons are highly polarized cells, and most develop a single axon and several dendrites. These two compartments acquire specific characteristics that enable neurons to transmit electrical signals....

Over the past few decades, molecular and cell biological approaches have unveiled a large number of signaling networks regulating neuronal polarity in cultured hippocampal neurons and the developing cortex. Emerging evidence reveals that positive and negative feedback signals play a crucial role in axon and dendrite specification.

Studies in the past decades indicate that the neuronal polarity machinery is one of the major targets of neurological disorders. Planar cell polarity (PCP) and apicobasal (AB) polarity modules were shown to be crucial for the establishment of neuronal polarity.

In neurons, morphological polarity begins with the appearance of the first neurite from the cell body. In multipolar neurons, a second phase of polarization occurs when a single neurite initiates a phase of rapid growth to become the neuron’s axon, while …

Aug 11, 2016 · Nearly every aspect of neuronal function depends on the accurate localization of polarized membrane proteins to the axon or dendrites. Selective sorting, selective transport and selective...

This research topic on the establishment and maintenance of neuronal polarity brings together important scientific contributions that help to better understand several aspects of neuronal development in vertebrates.

Nov 1, 2017 · Here we review the current understanding of developmental cues and cell biological mechanisms that establish polarity in newborn neurons, synthesizing information from vertebrate and invertebrate model systems.

Analyzing polarity signals under physiological conditions will provide a better understanding of how neurons can be induced to repolarize under pathological conditions, i.e., to regenerate their axons after central nervous system (CNS) injury.

Apr 24, 2019 · This current insight provides a holistic picture of the signaling mechanisms underlying neuronal polarization during neuronal development. Here, our review highlights recent advancements in this fascinating field, with a focus on the positive, and negative feedback signals as key regulatory mechanisms underlying neuronal polarization.

Neurons are highly polarized cells that provide a fascinating example of how cellular morphology and accurate protein distribution lay the basis for their function: the ability to receive, process, and transmit information. Several cellular mechanisms contribute to the establishment and maintenance of neuronal polarity.