Neurofilament
Neurofilament
Neurofilament (pronunciation: /ˌnʊərəʊˈfɪləmənt/) is a type of intermediate filament found in neurons. They are a key component of the neuronal cytoskeleton, and are involved in maintaining neuronal shape and facilitating intracellular transport.
Etymology
The term "neurofilament" is derived from the Greek words neuron, meaning "nerve", and filamentum, a Latin term meaning "thread". This reflects the filamentous structure of these proteins within nerve cells.
Structure
Neurofilaments are composed of three main subunits: light (NF-L), medium (NF-M), and heavy (NF-H) chains. These subunits assemble into a 10-nanometer filament, which forms a network throughout the neuron.
Function
Neurofilaments play a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity of neurons. They provide mechanical strength to the neuron, and their distribution within the cell helps to determine the diameter of axons. This, in turn, influences the speed of action potential propagation.
Related Terms
- Neuron: The primary cellular component in the nervous system, which neurofilaments are a part of.
- Intermediate filament: A type of cytoskeletal component, of which neurofilaments are a subtype.
- Axon: The long, slender projection of a neuron, which neurofilaments help to support and maintain.
- Action potential: The change in electrical potential associated with the passage of an impulse along the membrane of a muscle cell or nerve cell. Neurofilaments play a role in facilitating this process.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Neurofilament
- Wikipedia's article - Neurofilament
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