Neuron connectivity and correct neural function largely depend on axonal integrity. Neurofilaments (NFs) constitute the main cytoskeletal network maintaining the structural integrity of neurons and exhibit dynamic changes during axonal and dendritic growth. However, the mechanisms underlying axonal development and maintenance remain poorly understood. Here, we identify that multisynthetase complex p43 (MSC p43) is essential for NF assembly and axon maintenance. The MSC p43 protein was predominantly expressed in central neurons and interacted with NF light subunit in vivo. Mice lacking MSC p43 exhibited axon degeneration in motor neurons, defective neuromuscular junctions, muscular atrophy, and motor dysfunction. Furthermore, MSC p43 depletion in mice caused disorganization of the axonal NF network. Mechanistically, MSC p43 is required for maintaining normal phosphorylation levels of NFs. Thus, MSC p43 is indispensable in maintaining axonal integrity. Its dysfunction may underlie the NF disorganization and axon degeneration associated with motor neuron degenerative diseases.assembly ͉ axon degeneration ͉ multisynthetase complex ͉ neurofilament T he development and maintenance of neuronal axons are essential for the establishment of neuron connectivity and for correct neural function. Neurofilaments (NFs), a subtype of intermediate filaments (IFs), form part of the cytoskeleton that confers the intracellular scaffold and mechanical stability of neurons (1, 2). They are dynamic structures known to play key roles in neuronal development and function, such as neuronal morphogenesis, neuronal migration, axonal growth, synaptic plasticity, and intracellular transport (3). Five major types of IF proteins are expressed in adult neurons: 3 neurofilament proteins [neurofilament-light subunit (NF-L), neurofilamentmedium subunit (NF-M), and neurofilament-heavy subunit (NF-H), peripherin, and ␣-internexin (3). Studies with either gene targeting or a transgenic approach provide evidence that deficiency of NF proteins and disorganization of the neuronal NF network can result in abnormalities in the motor axon caliber, defective axonal transport, axon atrophy and loss, and motor dysfunction (3). Despite the abundance and crucial role of NFs in neurons, the molecular basis for the development and maintenance of neuronal axons is not fully understood.Posttranslational modifications and binding partners are keys for regulation of the dynamics and functions of NFs. Phosphorylation takes center stage for their regulation (4). Phosphorylation of NFs is slow and orchestrated by a range of enzymes, and NFs have been reported to be substrates of many kinases (5). The phosphorylation of NFs plays a key role in NF assembly and turnover; in forming cross-bridges between NFs, actin filaments, and microtubules (MTs); in axonal transport of NFs themselves; and in promoting NF integration into the cytoskeleton underlying dendrite arborization and axonal caliber determination and stability (4, 6, 7). Studies with transgenic mice overexpressing N...