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Updated: Jul 16, 2026

Detection of Axonally Localized mRNAs in Brain Sections Using High-Resolution In Situ Hybridization
Published on: June 17, 2015
RNA localisation in the nervous system
Ralf Dahm1, Michael Kiebler, Paolo Macchi
1Medical University of Vienna, Center for Brain Research, Division of Neuronal Cell Biology, Spitalgasse 4, A-1090 Vienna, Austria.
Abstract:
The localisation of specific RNAs is a widely employed mechanism to generate asymmetry in various biological systems, e.g. during embryonic development and cellular differentiation. Here, we highlight the importance of RNA localisation in mature neurons. Specific examples of mRNAs localised in neurons are those encoding Arc, beta-actin, CaMKIIalpha and MAP2. Moreover, non-coding RNAs, such as BC1/BC200 and microRNAs (miRNAs), which play important roles in the translational regulation of localised mRNAs, receive increasing attention. The process of RNA localisation, including RNP biogenesis, transport, anchoring and translational control, and the importance of RNA localisation for the function of the nervous system are discussed.
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