Axis cylinder

Axis Cylinder is a term used in neuroscience and anatomy to refer to the main body of a neuron's axon. The axis cylinder is responsible for transmitting electrical impulses away from the neuron's cell body. This is a crucial part of the neural communication process, as it allows for the transmission of information throughout the nervous system.

Structure

The axis cylinder is a long, slender projection that extends from the cell body of a neuron. It is surrounded by a fatty insulating substance known as the myelin sheath, which helps to speed up the transmission of electrical impulses. At the end of the axis cylinder are the axon terminals, which are responsible for transmitting signals to other neurons.

Function

The primary function of the axis cylinder is to transmit electrical impulses, or action potentials, away from the neuron's cell body. This is achieved through a process known as saltatory conduction, in which the action potential jumps from one node of Ranvier to the next along the myelin sheath. This allows for rapid transmission of signals throughout the nervous system.

Clinical Significance

Damage to the axis cylinder can result in a variety of neurological disorders. For example, in multiple sclerosis, the myelin sheath surrounding the axis cylinder is damaged, slowing down or blocking the transmission of signals. This can lead to symptoms such as difficulty moving, loss of balance, and problems with speech.

See Also

• Neuron
• Axon
• Myelin Sheath
• Action Potential
• Nervous System