Schwann cells

Schwann cells are a variety of glial cell that keep peripheral nerves alive. They are named after physiologist Theodor Schwann, who discovered them. Schwann cells are vital for the conduction of nerve impulses along axons. They are also necessary for nerve regeneration and repair after injury.

Function

Schwann cells are responsible for the formation of myelin, a fatty substance that surrounds and insulates nerve fibers. This myelin sheath allows for the rapid and efficient transmission of electrical signals along the nerve fiber. In addition to their role in myelination, Schwann cells also play a crucial role in nerve development and regeneration. They guide regrowing axons to their original locations and can engulf and digest damaged or dead axons.

Types

There are two main types of Schwann cells: myelinating and non-myelinating. Myelinating Schwann cells wrap around the axons of peripheral nerves, creating a myelin sheath. Non-myelinating Schwann cells do not produce myelin, but they do support axons and are involved in the maintenance of the nerve's health and function.

Clinical significance

Schwann cells are implicated in a number of neurological disorders. For example, in Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, there is a mutation in the gene that controls the production of myelin proteins, leading to a progressive loss of muscle tissue and touch sensation. Schwann cells are also involved in the formation of schwannomas, benign tumors that can cause symptoms such as hearing loss, balance problems, and facial pain.

See also

• Neuron
• Oligodendrocyte
• Neuroglia

References

Schwann cells Resources
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