AMPK links cellular bioenergy status to the decision making of axon initiation in neurons

Neuronal polarization begins by the selection of a single minor neurite that subsequently undergoes rapid extension until reaching a formidable length. To ensure that the highly active growth can be sustained by a sufficient energy supply, neurons are supposed to sense their energy status prior to initiating polarization. Our recent work shows that the bioenergy sensor, AMPK, plays a crucial role in the regulation of axon initiation. Activation of AMPK to mimic energy-lacking conditions results in a halt in axon selection and growth, leading to a loss of neuronal polarization.