Axonal mRNA transport and localized translational regulation of κ-opioid receptor in primary neurons of dorsal root ganglia

κ-opioid receptor (KOR) is detected pre- and postsynaptically, but the subcellular localization, translation, and regulation of kor mRNA in presynaptic compartments of sensory neurons remain elusive. In situ hybridization detected axonal distribution of kor mRNA in primary neurons of dorsal root ganglia (DRG). The MS2-fused GFP tracked kor mRNA transport from DRG neuronal soma to axons, requiring its 5′ and 3′ UTRs. In Campenot chambers, axonal translation of kor mRNA was demonstrated for DRG neurons, which depended on its 5′ UTR and was stimulated by KCI depolarization. KCI depolarization of DRG neurons rendered redistribution of kor mRNA from the postpolysomal fraction to the translationally active polysomal fraction. This study provided evidence for mRNA transport and regulation of presynaptic protein synthesis of nonstructural proteins like KOR in primary sensory neurons and demonstrated a mechanism of KCI depolarization-stimulated axonal mRNA redistribution for localized translational regulation.