Target-dependence of sensory neurons: An ultrastructural comparison of axotomised dorsal root ganglion neurons with allowed or denied reinnervation of peripheral targets

► Local endoplasmic reticulum changes play a critical role in the response of most cells to stress. ► We show that the RER of Nissl bodies in cat DRG neurons was disrupted as early as 6 h after axotomy. ► DRG Nissl body ultrastructure was peripheral target-dependent. ► This may represent peripheral target regulation of local protein synthesis.