What role does myelin serve in the nervous system?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the function of myelin in the nervous system, specifically what role it plays in relation to nerve cells and their signaling.
Answer
Myelin insulates axons to increase the speed and strength of nerve signal transmission.
Myelin serves as an insulating layer around axons in the nervous system, increasing the speed of nerve signal transmission (action potentials) and maintaining the strength of these impulses.
Answer for screen readers
Myelin serves as an insulating layer around axons in the nervous system, increasing the speed of nerve signal transmission (action potentials) and maintaining the strength of these impulses.
More Information
Myelin is essential for efficient nerve function. It's produced by oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system and by Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system. Damage to myelin can result in neurological diseases such as multiple sclerosis.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing myelin with the axons it insulates; myelin does not carry signals but aids in their faster transmission.
Sources
- Myelin: A Specialized Membrane for Cell Communication - Nature - nature.com
- Myelin Sheath: What It Is, Purpose & Function - Cleveland Clinic - my.clevelandclinic.org
- Myelin: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia - medlineplus.gov
AI-generated content may contain errors. Please verify critical information
