Axons are the major output processes of neurons. Normal axonal function is due to a complex relationship between a constellation of signaling molecules, molecular motors, mitochondria, structural elements, and ion channels of axons and glia. Recently, axonopathy, broadly defined as functional or structural defects in the axon or its terminal, has been established as a major early contributor to the genesis, progression, and symptomology of neurodegenerative disorders. These changes are common across a wide range of neurodegenerations including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington’s, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s diseases, glaucoma, and as a result of neurotoxin exposure. Despite the varied locations and progression of these conditions, axonal pathologies share many features.
The aim of this research topic is to assemble a series of original research papers, reviews, and commentaries that will illustrate both the commonalities and important differences across these diseases so that we may better understand and investigate this important topic.
Axons are the major output processes of neurons. Normal axonal function is due to a complex relationship between a constellation of signaling molecules, molecular motors, mitochondria, structural elements, and ion channels of axons and glia. Recently, axonopathy, broadly defined as functional or structural defects in the axon or its terminal, has been established as a major early contributor to the genesis, progression, and symptomology of neurodegenerative disorders. These changes are common across a wide range of neurodegenerations including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington’s, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s diseases, glaucoma, and as a result of neurotoxin exposure. Despite the varied locations and progression of these conditions, axonal pathologies share many features.
The aim of this research topic is to assemble a series of original research papers, reviews, and commentaries that will illustrate both the commonalities and important differences across these diseases so that we may better understand and investigate this important topic.