New insights into the influence of temperature on axonal transport and function in myelinated regions of Schwann cells

Abstract

Temperature within the range of 15°C–37°C plays a pivotal role in modulating cellular processes and is essential for understanding the complex mechanisms underlying axonal transport and function in myelinated regions of Schwann cells (SCs). This review presents a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge on the impact of temperature on various aspects of axonal function, including saltatory conduction, ion channel activity, molecular motor dynamics, and Schwann cell function. We also delve into the potential implications of these findings in the context of neurological disorders and their treatment. The temperature-dependent nature of saltatory conduction and action potential propagation in myelinated axons is of particular interest, as it directly affects the efficiency of nerve signal transmission. Additionally, the activity of ion channels in the nodes of Ranvier is subject to modulation by temperature, further emphasizing the importance of understanding temperature’s influence on neuronal function. This review concludes with a discussion of various unresolved questions in the field, and ideas are suggested for future research. Studying the precise molecular mechanisms underlying the temperature-dependent regulation of ion channels, molecular motors, and cytoskeletal components may lead to the development of novel strategies for the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders, which are commonly observed in demyelinating diseases and hereditary neuropathies. A deeper understanding of the role of temperature in neuronal function has the potential to significantly advance our knowledge of thermoregulation and neurologic function, ultimately leading to breakthroughs in the diagnosis and treatment of various neurological disorders.