AP PSYCHOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Myelin is an insulating layer, or sheath that forms around nerves, including those in the brain and spinal cord. It is made up of protein and fatty substances. This myelin sheath allows electrical impulses to transmit quickly and efficiently along the nerve cells. If myelin is damaged, these impulses slow down.

Detailed explanation-2: -The myelin sheath is characterized by a high proportion of lipids (70%–85%) and consequently a low proportion of proteins (15%–30%).

Detailed explanation-3: -The myelin sheath has three functions: Its fatty-protein coating provides protective insulation for your nerve cell, like the plastic insulation covering that encases the wires of an electrical cord. It allows the electrical impulses to travel quickly and efficiently between one nerve cell and the next.

Detailed explanation-4: -Myelin is present in the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS); however only the central nervous system is affected by MS. CNS myelin is produced by special cells called oligodendrocytes. PNS myelin is produced by Schwann cells.

Detailed explanation-5: -Myelin sheath consists of lipids and proteins which make up a fatty substance and is white in appearance. This forms the protective sleeve that wraps around the axon of neurons. The sheath is made up of many concentric layers of plasma membrane, wrapped tightly around the axon.