Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 18, 2026

Axon Stretch Growth: The Mechanotransduction of Neuronal Growth
Published on: August 10, 2011
Sound of an axon's growth
Frederic Folz1, Lukas Wettmann1, Giovanna Morigi1
1Theoretische Physik, Universität des Saarlandes, 66041 Saarbrücken, Germany.
Abstract:
Axons are linear structures of nerve cells that can range from a few tens of micrometers up to meters in length. In addition to external cues, the length of an axon is also regulated by unknown internal mechanisms. Molecular motors have been suggested to generate oscillations with an axon-length-dependent frequency that could be used to measure an axon's extension. Here, we present a mechanism for determining the axon length that couples the mechanical properties of an axon to the spectral decomposition of the oscillatory signal.
Related Concept Videos
Action Potentials
Action Potential
Membrane potential in neurons
Neurons typically have a resting membrane potential of about -70 millivolts (mV). When they receive...
Neurons: 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.
Action Potential
Membrane potential in neurons
Neurons typically have a resting membrane potential of about -70 millivolts (mV). When they receive...
Action Potential: Phases of Stimulation
Resting Phase:
In this phase, the cell's membrane is at its resting potential, typically around -70 millivolts (mV) for neurons. Inside the cell, there is a higher concentration of potassium ions (K+) and a lower concentration of sodium ions (Na+). Voltage-gated sodium channels are closed, and...
Propagation of Action Potentials
Neurons (nerve cells) have a resting membrane potential, with a slightly negative charge inside compared to outside. This is maintained by ion channels, such as sodium (Na+) and potassium (K+) channels, which control the flow of ions. When a stimulus, like a touch or a signal from another neuron, triggers the neuron, sodium channels open, allowing sodium ions to...

