New Aspects of Axonal Structure and Function

Axons are neuronal output elements responsible for the transmission and processing of signals from one neuron to another, even over very long distances. For a specific type of neuronal cell, axons are unique and exhibit heterogeneous patterns in terms of shape, length, and target structure. Axons are typically the long extensions of a nerve fiber that conduct impulses away from the cell body of the nerve cell. This book summarizes current findings on the morphological, physiological, developmental, computational, and pathophysiological aspects of axons. It aims to address new insights into axonal structure and function, their impact on signal transduction, the processes involved in the formation of axonal branching structures, and the transport of subcellular elements to their targets. Finally, it discusses how dysfunctions in one or more of these steps could lead to axonal degeneration and ultimately to neurodegenerative diseases.