Neutrotaxis, is a word derived from two Greek words, "neuron" meaning nerve cell and "taxis" meaning movement. It refers to the phenomenon of nerve cells moving towards or away from specific chemical signals. The correct spelling of this word is [njuːtɹəʊtæksɪs], with the stress on the second syllable. The IPA phonetic transcription helps to represent the exact sounds of each letter and helps with the accurate pronunciation of the word. Neutrotaxis is an important concept in neuroscience, as it plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of the nervous system.
Neutrotaxis, also known as axon guidance, refers to the process by which growing nerve fibers (axons) are directed to their appropriate destinations within the nervous system. It involves the precise navigation of axons across developing tissues to establish proper connectivity and form functional neural circuits.
During neutrotaxis, axons extend from the cell body, often in response to chemical or molecular cues released by target cells or guidepost molecules present along their path. These cues provide directional information to the growing axons, thus guiding them towards their intended targets.
Neutrotaxis encompasses various mechanisms and molecules that play crucial roles in axon guidance, including cell adhesion molecules, growth factors, and diffusible chemoattractants or chemorepellents. Cells and tissues within the nervous system release these molecular cues, which serve as guides for axons to follow towards their final destinations.
The process of neutrotaxis is highly regulated and intricate, allowing for precise connectivity between different regions of the nervous system. It ensures that axons reach their appropriate targets, enabling the establishment of proper neural circuitry necessary for normal neurological function.
Research into neutrotaxis is essential in understanding neural development, regeneration, and repair. Dysfunction or disruption of axon guidance can lead to developmental abnormalities, neural circuitry defects, and neurological disorders. Therefore, elucidating the mechanisms and molecules involved in neutrotaxis provides valuable insights into the understanding and potential treatment of various neurological conditions.
The exertion of an attractive or repellent action in neutrophil leucocytes.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "neutrotaxis" is derived from a combination of two words: "neuro" and "taxis".
"Neuro" is derived from the Greek word "neuron", meaning "nerve". It is commonly used as a prefix in scientific terms relating to nerves or the nervous system.
"Taxis" is also from Greek and means "arrangement" or "order". In biological terms, it refers to the movement or orientation of an organism or cell in response to a stimulus.
Therefore, "neutrotaxis" combines "neuro" and "taxis" to describe the process of movement or orientation of a cell or organism mediated or guided by nerves or the nervous system.