Which glial cell forms myelin in the central nervous system and can myelinate multiple axons?

Enhance your knowledge in physiological psychology and neuroimaging techniques. Prepare effectively with our comprehensive quiz featuring multiple choice questions, detailed explanations, and insightful hints for each question.

Multiple Choice

Which glial cell forms myelin in the central nervous system and can myelinate multiple axons?

Explanation:
Oligodendrocytes form myelin in the central nervous system, and one oligodendrocyte can extend multiple processes to wrap segments of several different axons. This allows a single cell to myelinate multiple fibers, speeding conduction via saltatory conduction. In contrast, Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system myelinate a single axon segment each. Astrocytes support neuronal function and the blood–brain barrier, and microglia are immune-like cells; neither forms CNS myelin.

Oligodendrocytes form myelin in the central nervous system, and one oligodendrocyte can extend multiple processes to wrap segments of several different axons. This allows a single cell to myelinate multiple fibers, speeding conduction via saltatory conduction. In contrast, Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system myelinate a single axon segment each. Astrocytes support neuronal function and the blood–brain barrier, and microglia are immune-like cells; neither forms CNS myelin.

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