Fig. 2.
Axonal mRNA localization in neurons. (a) Recognition of mRNA cis-acting elements (orange) by trans-acting factors (blue ovals) in the nucleus forming RNP complexes. (b) Nuclear export of RNP particles into the soma and recruitment of additional trans-acting factors (red ovals) into the complex. (c). Transport of remodeled RNP or RNA granule along the cytoskeleton (light blue lines) with the help of motor proteins (black star) to the axon/growth cone. Translational machinery including ribosomes (grey ovals) attach to the RNA granule to initiate protein synthesis. Ribosomes may even attach to the RNA granule earlier during transport but begin translation only after reaching its final destination