Guidepost cells

Guidepost Cells

Ablation of a guidepost cell in a developing nervous system.

Guidepost cells are specialized cells that play a crucial role in the development of the nervous system. They are transient cells that provide directional cues to growing axons during neurodevelopment. These cells are essential for the proper wiring of the nervous system, ensuring that axons reach their correct targets.

Function

Guidepost cells are strategically positioned along the pathways that growing axons take. They act as intermediate targets or "stepping stones" that help axons navigate through the complex environment of the developing nervous system. By interacting with the growth cones of axons, guidepost cells influence the direction of axon growth through various molecular signals.

Molecular Mechanisms

The interaction between guidepost cells and axons is mediated by a variety of cell adhesion molecules, growth factors, and other signaling molecules. These include:

• Netrins: Secreted proteins that attract or repel axons depending on the receptors present on the growth cone.
• Semaphorins: A class of proteins that can act as both attractants and repellents for axons.
• Ephrins: Membrane-bound proteins that interact with Eph receptors on axons to guide their growth.

Role in Development

During embryogenesis, guidepost cells are crucial for the establishment of major neural pathways. For example, in the developing vertebrate nervous system, guidepost cells help direct the growth of axons from the spinal cord to their targets in the brain and peripheral nervous system.

Experimental Studies

Research involving the ablation of guidepost cells, as depicted in the image, has provided insights into their function. When guidepost cells are removed or disrupted, axons often fail to reach their intended targets, leading to miswiring of the nervous system. This highlights the importance of guidepost cells in neural circuit formation.

Related Pages

• Axon guidance
• Neurodevelopment
• Growth cone
• Cell adhesion molecules