Oligodendrocytes

Definition

Oligodendrocytes are a type of glial cell in the central nervous system responsible for producing myelin, which insulates neuronal axons to facilitate rapid signal transmission. They play a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity and functionality of neural circuits.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Oligodendrocytes produce myelin sheaths that wrap around axons in the central nervous system.
2. They can extend their processes to multiple axons, unlike Schwann cells which myelinate only one axon in the peripheral nervous system.
3. Dysfunction or damage to oligodendrocytes is associated with neurological diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis.
4. Oligodendrocytes originate from oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) during development.
5. These cells contribute to the repair and regeneration of myelin following injury.

Review Questions

• What is the primary function of oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system?
• How do oligodendrocytes differ from Schwann cells in terms of their structure and function?
• What neurological disease is commonly associated with oligodendrocyte dysfunction?

Related terms

Schwann Cells:

Glial cells that myelinate axons in the peripheral nervous system.

Myelin Sheath: A fatty layer that insulates axons to speed up electrical signal transmission.

Multiple Sclerosis:

A chronic illness involving damage to the myelin sheath caused by an immune response against oligodendrocytes.