Tuning of Ranvier node and internode properties in myelinated axons to adjust action potential timing

Marc C. Ford, Olga Alexandrova, Lee Cossell, Annette Stange-Marten, James Sinclair, Conny Kopp-Scheinpflug, Michael Pecka, David Attwell () and Benedikt Grothe ()
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Marc C. Ford: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich
Olga Alexandrova: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich
Lee Cossell: Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London
Annette Stange-Marten: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich
James Sinclair: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich
Conny Kopp-Scheinpflug: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich
Michael Pecka: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich
David Attwell: Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London
Benedikt Grothe: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich

Nature Communications, 2015, vol. 6, issue 1, 1-14

Abstract: Abstract Action potential timing is fundamental to information processing; however, its determinants are not fully understood. Here we report unexpected structural specializations in the Ranvier nodes and internodes of auditory brainstem axons involved in sound localization. Myelination properties deviated significantly from the traditionally assumed structure. Axons responding best to low-frequency sounds had a larger diameter than high-frequency axons but, surprisingly, shorter internodes. Simulations predicted that this geometry helps to adjust the conduction velocity and timing of action potentials within the circuit. Electrophysiological recordings in vitro and in vivo confirmed higher conduction velocities in low-frequency axons. Moreover, internode length decreased and Ranvier node diameter increased progressively along the distal axon segments, which simulations show was essential to ensure precisely timed depolarization of the giant calyx of Held presynaptic terminal. Thus, individual anatomical parameters of myelinated axons can be tuned to optimize pathways involved in temporal processing.

Date: 2015
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DOI: 10.1038/ncomms9073

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