The Cytoskeleton of Neurons and Glia

Publisher Summary The aim of this chapter is twofold: first, to provide an introduction to the cytoskeletal elements themselves and second, to examine their role in neuronal and glial function. Throughout, the emphasis has been given on the cytoskeleton that is mentioned as a vital, dynamic component of the nervous system. Neurons and glia exhibit a remarkable diversity of shapes. These different morphologies are so characteristic and distinc­tive that they have been used since the time of Cajal to define neural functions. For example, Purkinje cells in the cerebel­lum have such distinctive morphologies that they are read­ily identifiable in any vertebrate. Neurons do not divide, so their distinctive morphologies are maintained throughout life. Biochemical and immunological markers are used to delin­eate neuronal populations. A brief description related to the establishment of cytoskeletal elements within axons and dendrites are also given in the chapter that illustrates the dynamic nature of the cytoskeleton. The sequence of events has been described for neurons in primary culture.