Soft neurons actively maintain strong tension for synaptic functions (INVITED)

Abstract eng:
In—vitro studies over the last three decades revealed that neurons generate tension on culture dishes. But the physiological significance of this tension remained unclear. Here we show, using embryonic fruit flies (Drosophila), that (l) in vivo neurons actively maintain a rest tension, (2) neurons employ actomyosin machinery to maintain and regulate the tension, (3) this tension is critical for accumulation of neurotransmitor vesicles at the synaptic terminals (junction with muscle or another neuron), i.e., without tension the accumulation disappears, but reappears with the supply of tension, (4) this tension regulates transport of vesicles along the axon of the neurons. Neurotransmission is the single most function of neurons, and it mediates memory and learning in animals. Since neuronal force regulates transport and accumulation of neurotransmitter vesicles, it follows that the neuronal forces are fundamentally linked with memory and learning, and they offer a new and untapped paradigm in understanding neurological diseases. (150 words)

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