Which glial cells form the myelin sheath in the central nervous system?

Which glial cells form the myelin sheath in the central nervous system?

• A. Oligodendrocytes
• B. Astrocytes
• C. Microglia
• D. Schwann cells

Answer: (A)

Oligodendrocytes form the myelin sheath in the central nervous system. These glial cells extend their processes to wrap around multiple axons, creating insulated segments that increase the speed of electrical signals through saltatory conduction. In contrast, Schwann cells are the myelin builders in the peripheral nervous system, each wrapping around a single axon segment. Astrocytes support neurons and regulate the extracellular environment, while microglia act as immune cells within the CNS.

Oligodendrocytes form the myelin sheath in the central nervous system. These glial cells extend their processes to wrap around multiple axons, creating insulated segments that increase the speed of electrical signals through saltatory conduction. In contrast, Schwann cells are the myelin builders in the peripheral nervous system, each wrapping around a single axon segment. Astrocytes support neurons and regulate the extracellular environment, while microglia act as immune cells within the CNS.