Insight into protein synthesis in axon regeneration

Abstract

Successful axon regeneration is crucial for the treatment of numerous nerve injuries and neurodegenerative diseases, which requires adequate and accurate protein synthesis, including mRNA translation, both in the neuron somas and locally in the axons. Recent studies have shed light on novel functions and mechanisms of protein synthesis that are relevant for axon regeneration, with a particular focus on local translation. Here, we review the new developed technologies and approaches for investigating local translation, discuss the roles of local translation in axon regeneration, and summarize the key signaling molecules and pathways that regulate local translation during axon regeneration. Additionally, we give an overview of local translation in the peripheral and central nervous systems neurons and the latest progress in protein synthesis in neuron somas respectively. Finally, we consider the potential directions for future research in this field to provide insights into protein synthesis in axon regeneration.

Keywords: Axon regeneration; Central nervous system; Local translation; Neuron soma; Peripheral nervous system; Protein synthesis.