Microtubule polarity in the peripheral processes of trigeminal ganglion cells: relevance for the retrograde transport of herpes simplex virus

摘要: The directional movement of many cellular organelles in neurons is dependent on polarized microtubules and direction-specific motor molecules. Microtubules are also thought to mediate the retrograde transport herpes simplex virus (HSV) sensory neurons. To define machinery responsible for axonal HSV, we have investigated polarity peripheral axons trigeminal ganglion long ciliary nerves rabbits were prepared a standard “hook assay” microtubule polarity. Axons cross-sectioned contained with almost uniform orientation. fast-growing, plus ends these located distal cell body slow-growing, minus directed centrally. determine role played by HSV axons, injected retrobulbar space mice microtubule-inhibiting drugs colchicine, vinblastine, or nocodazole microfilament inhibitor cytochalasin D 1 d later inoculated cornea HSV. We found that reduced 52–87% amount recovered from 3 postinoculation, compared vehicle-treated animals. In contrast, beta-lumicolchicine did not significantly reduce ganglion. conclude axon endings bodies requires intact occurs plus-to-minus direction microtubules. Our data consistent hypothesis mediated end-directed molecule, example, cytoplasmic dynein.