Myelin
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Scope Note
fatty, axon-enwrapping sheath that serves to speed up neural conduction, formed by concentric layers of Schwann's cell (peripheral) or oligodendrocyte (CNS) membranes; loss or damage leads to severe loss of neural function, as in multiple sclerosis.
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Facts (generated by robot; please edit if you find it inaccurate)
- Myelin is produced by specialized cells: oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system, and Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system.
- Myelin is a substance rich in protein and lipids (fatty substances) that forms layers around the nerve fibers and acts as insulation.
- Therefore, myelin is like the layer of plastic insulation surrounding an interior wire, which is the nerve.
- This is of course important to the MS world because the body's attack on myelin is considered to be the direct cause of multiple sclerosis symptoms, and ultimately, disease progression.
- Myelin is made by oligodendrocytes, which are a type of glial cell or neural support cell.
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