MYELINATED AXON Meaning and
Definition
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A myelinated axon is a specialized component of the nervous system that serves as a channel for electrical impulses to transmit signals from one neuron to another or to an effector cell (such as a muscle or gland). The term "myelinated" refers to the presence of myelin, a protective and insulating layer that surrounds the axon. This myelin sheath is formed by the wrapping of specialized cells known as Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system or oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system.
The myelin sheath plays a crucial role in speeding up the conduction of electrical impulses along the axon. This is because it provides insulation, preventing the electrical current from leaking out or dissipating. Additionally, the myelin sheath acts as a series of interconnected gaps called nodes of Ranvier, which facilitate the rapid "jumping" of the electrical impulses from one node to another. This phenomenon, called saltatory conduction, allows for faster and more efficient transmission of nerve signals.
Myelinated axons are predominantly found in the white matter of the brain and spinal cord, which is responsible for transmitting sensory and motor information between different regions of the central nervous system. The presence of myelination significantly increases the speed and efficiency at which nerve signals are transmitted, enabling quick responses to stimuli and efficient coordination of bodily functions.
Common Misspellings for MYELINATED AXON
- nyelinated axon
- kyelinated axon
- jyelinated axon
- mtelinated axon
- mgelinated axon
- mhelinated axon
- muelinated axon
- m7elinated axon
- m6elinated axon
- mywlinated axon
- myslinated axon
- mydlinated axon
- myrlinated axon
- my4linated axon
- my3linated axon
- myekinated axon
- myepinated axon
- myeoinated axon
- myelunated axon
- myeljnated axon
Etymology of MYELINATED AXON
The word "myelinated axon" originates from the combination of two terms: "myelin" and "axon".
1. Myelin: The term "myelin" comes from the Greek word "myelos", which means "marrow". In the context of biology, "myelin" refers to a fatty substance that forms a protective sheath around certain nerve fibers in the central and peripheral nervous systems. This sheath is known to enhance the transmission speed of electrical signals along the nerve fibers.
2. Axon: The word "axon" originates from the Greek word "axios", meaning "axis". In the nervous system, an axon is a long, threadlike extension of a nerve cell (neuron) that carries information away from the cell body towards other neurons, muscles, or glands.
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