Three-Dimensional Reconstruction of a Node of Ranvier Obtained by Serial Section Electron Tomography

Abstract Nodes of Ranvier are sites on myelinated axons where the insulating layers of myelin are interrupted. They represent an excellent example of a complex cellular structure that contains highly differentiated sub-regions. At these sites of cell-cell specialization, ion fluxes occur which are required for propagation of action potentials. Myelinated axons and their nodes of Ranvier represent an important evolutionary advance for vertebrates that permit very rapid propagation of action potentials without large increases in axonal diameter. This physiological achievement is based on adaptations at a molecular level resulting in an elegant cooperation between glial cells and the axons of neurons. The organization and sub-specialization of the molecular components of the node of Ranvier are complex but often inter-related. The nodal region of axons are enriched in several channel and pump proteins including the voltage-gated Na+ channel, Na+-K+ ATPase and a number of different K+ channel isotypes.