Myelin sheath is produced by :a)Astrocytes and Schwann cellsb)Oligodendrocytes and Osteoclastsc)Osteoclasts and Astrocytesd)Schwann cells and OligodendrocytesCorrect answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Question

Answer

Axons of most of the nervous are repeatedly encircled by myelin, a membrane containing lipid. This is called myelin sheath. Nerve is a group of axons. Myelin sheath in the nerves is  formed of schwann cells. Myelin sheath in the brain and spinal cord is formed of specialised cells called oligodendrocytes. The myelin sheath has a shiny white colour.

Answer

D) Schwann cells and oligodendrocytes is the correct option.

Myelin sheath is also known as medullary sheath. It is an insulating layer which covers the axon and helps to maintain a constant membrane potential. It is produced by Schwann cell in the peripheral nervous system and from oligodendroglia cells.

Answer

Myelin sheath is produced by Schwann cells and Oligodendrocytes.

Schwann Cells:
- Schwann cells are a type of glial cell that are found in the peripheral nervous system (PNS).
- They are responsible for producing the myelin sheath that surrounds and insulates the axons of neurons in the PNS.
- Each Schwann cell wraps around a single axon, forming multiple layers of myelin.
- The myelin sheath acts as an electrical insulator, allowing for faster signal transmission along the axon.

Oligodendrocytes:
- Oligodendrocytes are a type of glial cell that are found in the central nervous system (CNS).
- They are responsible for producing the myelin sheath that surrounds and insulates the axons of neurons in the CNS.
- Unlike Schwann cells, which wrap around a single axon, oligodendrocytes can extend their processes to myelinate multiple axons.
- Each oligodendrocyte can myelinate several axons, forming multiple segments of myelin.

Function of Myelin Sheath:
- The myelin sheath is crucial for the proper functioning of the nervous system.
- It provides insulation to the axons, preventing the leakage of electrical signals and allowing for faster conduction of nerve impulses.
- The myelin sheath also helps in the regeneration of damaged axons and provides structural support to the neurons.

Conclusion:
- The production of the myelin sheath is carried out by two types of glial cells: Schwann cells in the PNS and oligodendrocytes in the CNS.
- Schwann cells wrap around a single axon in the PNS, while oligodendrocytes can myelinate multiple axons in the CNS.
- The myelin sheath plays a critical role in the proper functioning of the nervous system by insulating and enhancing the conduction of nerve impulses.

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