Neuronal Development - Ultra-Complete Master Study Guide

A set of flashcards covering key concepts in neuronal development for exam preparation.

Neuronal migration

Movement of neurons from birthplace to final functional location.

Leading process extension

The first step in neuronal migration where the leading edge grows toward the signal.

Actin

A protein that polymerizes to push the membrane forward during neuronal migration.

Microtubules

Cytoskeletal components that stabilize the process and support structure during migration.

Filopodia

Bundled actin structures that are stable and protrude from the leading edge.

Lamellipodia

Mesh network of actin that is dynamic and aids in movement.

Integrins

Adhesion receptors that attach neurons to the substrate and prevent slipping.

Centrosome

Microtubule organizing center (MTOC) essential for neuronal migration.

Nucleokinesis

The process by which the nucleus moves toward the centrosome during migration.

Guidance cues

Signals that regulate actin and microtubule dynamics to direct neuronal movement.

Attractive guidance cues

Signals that promote polymerization and attract the neuron toward the cue.

Repulsive guidance cues

Signals that induce depolymerization and push the neuron away from the cue.

SEMA3A

A repulsive guidance cue that interacts with Neuropilin and Plexin receptors.

BDNF

A brain-derived neurotrophic factor that acts as an attractive cue and promotes motility.

Radial migration

Vertical movement of neurons along a radial glial scaffold, often influenced by Reelin.

Tangential migration

Inhibitory movement of neurons that typically is lateral and avoids certain regions.

Neuritogenesis

Formation of neurites from spherical cells through actin protrusions.

Polarization

The process of defining one neurite as an axon, stabilizing actin and microtubules.

Growth cone

The dynamic extension at the tip of a growing axon, responsible for sensing and movement.

Axon elongation

The process whereby the axon extends through actin pushing and microtubule stabilization.

Dynein

A retrograde motor protein that moves materials toward the cell body.

Kinesin

An anterograde motor protein that transports materials toward the axon tip.

Branching

The formation of new axonal branches involving actin protrusions and microtubule dynamics.

NGF (Nerve Growth Factor)

A neurotrophic factor that stimulates growth and development in neurons.

Synapse formation

The process where the growth cone differentiates into a synapse with a target neuron.

Dynamic instability

The ability of microtubules to undergo rapid growth and shrinkage affecting cellular remodeling.

Cytoskeletal remodeling

The process that drives cellular changes and motility, involving actin and microtubules.