Axolemma

Axolemma Histology, OpenStax College

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1221 Action Potential

Axolemma is the specialized cell membrane that surrounds the axon of a neuron. The axolemma plays a crucial role in the conduction of nerve impulses along the axon and in maintaining the electrochemical gradient necessary for this conduction. It is involved in various functions such as the maintenance of the resting membrane potential, initiation and propagation of action potentials, and regulation of substances entering and exiting the neuron.

Structure

The axolemma consists of a lipid bilayer that is similar in composition to other cell membranes but is specialized to meet the functional requirements of the neuron. This lipid bilayer is embedded with various types of proteins, including ion channels, ion pumps, and receptors that are essential for neuronal function. The axolemma's structure allows it to function as a selective barrier, controlling the movement of ions and molecules in and out of the axon, which is critical for the generation and propagation of electrical signals.

Function

The primary function of the axolemma is to facilitate the rapid transmission of electrical signals along the axon. This is achieved through the action of voltage-gated ion channels that open and close in response to changes in the membrane potential. The axolemma also plays a role in the maintenance of the resting membrane potential, a critical factor in the neuron's readiness to transmit signals.

Nerve Impulse Conduction

The axolemma's ion channels are vital for the conduction of nerve impulses. When a neuron is stimulated, sodium channels in the axolemma open, allowing sodium ions (Na+) to flow into the axon, causing depolarization. This depolarization triggers adjacent sodium channels to open, propagating the nerve impulse along the axon. Potassium channels then open to allow potassium ions (K+) to flow out of the axon, repolarizing the membrane and restoring the resting potential.

Maintenance of Electrochemical Gradient

The axolemma contains sodium-potassium pumps that actively transport Na+ out of the axon and K+ into the axon. This active transport is essential for maintaining the electrochemical gradient across the axolemma, which is necessary for the generation of action potentials.

Clinical Significance

Damage to the axolemma can impair nerve impulse conduction, leading to neurological disorders. Conditions such as multiple sclerosis involve the degradation of the myelin sheath, which insulates the axon and facilitates rapid signal transmission. When the myelin sheath is damaged, the axolemma is exposed, resulting in slowed or blocked nerve signal conduction, which can affect muscle control, vision, and other functions.

See Also

• Neuron
• Myelin sheath
• Nerve impulse
• Resting membrane potential
• Action potential