Myelin Sheath Production in CNS

The myelin sheath is a fatty layer that insulates nerve cell axons, helping to speed up the transmission of electrical signals. This insulation is crucial for the proper functioning of the nervous system.

Central Nervous System (CNS) Myelination

In the Central Nervous System (CNS), which includes the brain and spinal cord, the cells responsible for producing the myelin sheath are specialized glial cells known as Oligodendrocytes. Each oligodendrocyte can myelinate multiple axons simultaneously.

Comparison with Other Glial Cells

Other glial cells have different functions:

• Schwann cells: These cells myelinate axons, but only in the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS).
• Microglia: These are the primary immune cells of the CNS, acting as macrophages.
• Astrocytes: These star-shaped cells provide structural support, regulate the external environment of neurons, and contribute to the blood-brain barrier.

Therefore, the correct cell type responsible for producing myelin sheath in the CNS is Oligodendrocytes.