axonal transport

Axonal transport, also called Axoplasmic transport, is a cell process that is responsible for moving mitochondria, synaptic vesicles, lipids, proteins, and other cell parts into and out of a neuron's cell body. The process goes through the cytoplasm of its own axon. The vast majority of axonal proteins are synthesized in the neuronal cell body and transported along axons. Axonal transport occurs throughout the life of a neuron, and is absolutely essential to the cells growth and survival. Axonal transport deficits have been reported in many neurodegenerative conditions, including ALS, and are widely assumed to be an immediate causative step to axon and synapse loss.