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Neurons: The Axon

Neurons: The Axon

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....

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jan 19, 2026

Utilizing Combined Methodologies to Define the Role of Plasma Membrane Delivery During Axon Branching and Neuronal Morphogenesis

Utilizing Combined Methodologies to Define the Role of Plasma Membrane Delivery During Axon Branching and Neuronal Morphogenesis

Published on: March 16, 2016

Imaging of the Axon Initial Segment.

Jessica Di Re^1,2, Cihan Kayasandik³, Gonzalo Botello-Lins⁴

¹Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas.

Current Protocols in Neuroscience

|September 19, 2019

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

This study details methods for visualizing and quantifying axon initial segment (AIS) proteins. These techniques are crucial for understanding AIS protein function in neurological diseases.

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Published on: February 11, 2022

Use of Primary Cultured Hippocampal Neurons to Study the Assembly of Axon Initial Segments

Use of Primary Cultured Hippocampal Neurons to Study the Assembly of Axon Initial Segments

Published on: February 12, 2021

Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: Jan 19, 2026

Utilizing Combined Methodologies to Define the Role of Plasma Membrane Delivery During Axon Branching and Neuronal Morphogenesis

Utilizing Combined Methodologies to Define the Role of Plasma Membrane Delivery During Axon Branching and Neuronal Morphogenesis

Published on: March 16, 2016

Measuring Properties of the Membrane Periodic Skeleton of the Axon Initial Segment using 3D-Structured Illumination Microscopy 3D-SIM

Measuring Properties of the Membrane Periodic Skeleton of the Axon Initial Segment using 3D-Structured Illumination Microscopy 3D-SIM

Published on: February 11, 2022

Use of Primary Cultured Hippocampal Neurons to Study the Assembly of Axon Initial Segments

Use of Primary Cultured Hippocampal Neurons to Study the Assembly of Axon Initial Segments

Published on: February 12, 2021

Area of Science:

Neuroscience
Cell Biology
Biochemistry

Background:

The axon initial segment (AIS) is critical for neuronal electrical activity.
AIS protein dysfunction is implicated in neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases.
Accurate visualization and quantification of AIS proteins are needed for disease research.

Purpose of the Study:

To describe methods for immunolabeling AIS proteins.
To present techniques for quantifying AIS protein expression and distribution.
To provide tools for studying AIS in normal and disease models.

Main Methods:

Immunolabeling of AIS proteins in cultured neurons and brain slices.
Fluorescent labeling for protein quantification.
Analysis of protein expression and pattern distribution.

Main Results:

Established protocols for AIS protein immunolabeling.
Developed methods for quantitative analysis of AIS protein levels.
Demonstrated visualization of protein distribution within the AIS.

Conclusions:

The described methods enable accurate visualization and quantification of AIS proteins.
These techniques are valuable for investigating the role of AIS proteins in neurological disorders.
The study provides essential tools for advancing research in neurobiology and disease