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Neurons: The Axon

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Axons are long, cytoplasmic processes of nerve cells capable of propagating electrical impulses known as action potentials. The cytoplasm or axoplasm of an axon contains neurofibrils, neurotubules, small vesicles, lysosomes, mitochondria, and various enzymes, all encased within the axolemma, the plasma membrane of the axon.
The axon attaches to the cell body at a cone-shaped elevation called the axon hillock. The initial part of the axon, closest to the hillock, is known as the initial segment.

Translocation of Proteins into the Mitochondria

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Mitochondrial precursors are translocated to the internal subcompartments via independent mechanisms involving distinct protein machineries called translocases.
Sorting of outer membrane proteins:
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Nuclear encoded mitochondrial precursors are imported to the inner membrane in a multistep process involving two separate translocons, TIM22 and TIM23. TIM23 is a cation-selective pore that remains closed by the N terminal segment of the protein. Negative charges on the TIM23 act as a receptor for the incoming precursor, pulling the positively charged matrix-targeting sequence for peptide insertion and translocation.
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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 24, 2026

Three-dimensional Imaging and Analysis of Mitochondria within Human Intraepidermal Nerve Fibers

Three-dimensional Imaging and Analysis of Mitochondria within Human Intraepidermal Nerve Fibers

Published on: September 29, 2017

Mitochondrial transport and docking in axons.

Qian Cai¹, Zu-Hang Sheng

¹Synaptic Function Section, The Porter Neuroscience Research Center, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA. caiq@ninds.nih.gov

Experimental Neurology

|April 4, 2009

Summary

Mitochondria movement in neurons is complex, involving both stationary and mobile states. Understanding these axonal mitochondrial dynamics is key to neuronal health and function.

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Last Updated: Jun 24, 2026

Three-dimensional Imaging and Analysis of Mitochondria within Human Intraepidermal Nerve Fibers

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Published on: September 29, 2017

Axonal Transport of Organelles in Motor Neuron Cultures using Microfluidic Chambers System

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Published on: May 5, 2020

Expanding the Toolkit for In Vivo Imaging of Axonal Transport

Expanding the Toolkit for In Vivo Imaging of Axonal Transport

Published on: December 23, 2021

Area of Science:

Neuroscience
Cell Biology
Mitochondrial Biology

Background:

Mitochondrial transport and distribution are vital for neuronal physiology, particularly in axons and synapses.
Axonal mitochondria exhibit complex motility, including saltatory and bidirectional movement, with a significant portion remaining stationary.

Purpose of the Study:

To review the molecular and cellular mechanisms governing axonal mitochondrial mobility.
To discuss the role of motor adaptors and docking machinery in mitochondrial transport.
To explore the impact of mitochondrial mobility on synaptic function.

Main Methods:

This review synthesizes existing literature on mitochondrial transport in neurons.
It examines molecular and cellular mechanisms of mitochondrial motility.
Physiological evidence linking mitochondrial mobility to synaptic function is discussed.

Main Results:

Axonal mitochondria exhibit dynamic regulation between motile and stationary states.
Motor adaptor complexes and docking machinery are crucial for mitochondrial transport and localization.
Mitochondrial mobility significantly influences neuronal development and synaptic function.

Conclusions:

The regulation of mitochondrial motility is essential for maintaining neuronal health and function.
Understanding these mechanisms provides insights into neuronal development and synaptic plasticity.
Further research into mitochondrial dynamics can reveal therapeutic targets for neurological disorders.