Myelin sheath

Definition

The myelin sheath is a protective covering made of fatty substances that surrounds the axons of nerve cells, facilitating the rapid transmission of electrical signals. It is essential for proper nervous system functioning.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Myelin sheath damage is a hallmark of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), leading to disrupted nerve signal transmission.
2. Oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system and Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system produce myelin.
3. Demyelination can cause symptoms like muscle weakness, coordination problems, and visual disturbances.
4. Remyelination is a potential therapeutic target for treating MS.
5. Drugs like interferon-beta and glatiramer acetate are used to manage MS by modulating immune responses.

Review Questions

• What role does the myelin sheath play in nerve signal transmission?
• Which cells are responsible for producing myelin in the central and peripheral nervous systems?
• How does damage to the myelin sheath impact patients with Multiple Sclerosis?

Related terms

Demyelination:

The process by which myelin sheaths are damaged or destroyed, impairing nerve function.

Oligodendrocytes:

Cells in the central nervous system responsible for producing and maintaining myelin.

Remyelination: The process of repairing damaged myelin sheaths, often a focus in MS treatment research.