Dictionary of Biological Psychology
A growth cone is found at the end of a developing AXON. Projecting from the growth cone are whisker-like filaments called FILOPODIA, (interconnected by membranes called LAMELLIPODIA).
The filopodia extend and retract, guiding axons forward as they grow. Axonal growth is actually generated by the growth cone. ADHESION MOLECULES on the growth cone appear to act, in a sense, to drag the axon forward towards targets that are chemically identified.
See also: nerve crush; neuronal migration
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