Oligodendrocytes

Oligodendrocytes are a type of neuroglia that are found in the central nervous system (CNS). They are responsible for the production and maintenance of myelin sheaths, which are essential for the efficient transmission of nerve impulses.

Function

Oligodendrocytes are responsible for the formation of myelin sheaths in the CNS. These sheaths are composed of layers of lipid and protein, and they serve to insulate axons, thereby increasing the speed at which nerve impulses are conducted.

Development

Oligodendrocytes are derived from oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs), which are a type of glial cell. OPCs differentiate into mature oligodendrocytes under the influence of several factors, including growth factors and neurotransmitters.

Clinical significance

Damage to oligodendrocytes and the myelin sheaths they produce is a characteristic feature of several neurological disorders, including multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica. In these conditions, the loss of myelin results in impaired nerve conduction and a range of neurological symptoms.

See also

• Schwann cell
• Neuron
• Astrocyte
• Microglia

References

Oligodendrocytes Resources
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