The node of Ranvier in CNS pathology
I Lorena Arancibia-Carcamo1, David Attwell
1Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, London, WC1E 6BT, UK.
Acta Neuropathologica
|June 11, 2014
Summary
Nodes of Ranvier are vital for nerve signal transmission. Pathological changes at these nodes contribute to neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis and stroke.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Nodes of Ranvier facilitate action potential propagation in myelinated axons.
- Central nervous system (CNS) disorders often overlook nodal defects, focusing instead on grey matter neurons or white matter oligodendrocytes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the operational principles and molecular structure of the node of Ranvier.
- To explain how defects at the node and paranode contribute to neurological disorders.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on the node of Ranvier's structure and function.
- Analysis of pathological changes at the node, paranode, and juxtaparanode.
Main Results:
- Pathological changes include node lengthening, paranodal seal failure, and juxtaparanodal myelin retraction.
- These alterations can disrupt the function of myelinated axons.
Conclusions:
- Defects at the node of Ranvier and associated regions play a significant role in neurological diseases.
- Understanding nodal function is crucial for comprehending CNS disorders such as stroke, spinal cord injury, and multiple sclerosis.
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