Changes

Details regarding the Schwann cell have been covered within the PNS Structure and Anatomy page so for further information regarding Schwann cells please click [[PNS_Structure_-_Anatomy_%26_Physiology#The_Schwann_Cell|here]].

Details regarding the Schwann cell have been covered within the PNS Structure and Anatomy page so for further information regarding Schwann cells please click [[PNS_Structure_-_Anatomy_%26_Physiology#The_Schwann_Cell|here]].

====Oligodendrocytes====

====Oligodendrocytes====

[[Image:oligodendrocyte.jpg|thumb|right|75px|Oligodendrocyte]]

[[Image:oligodendrocyte.jpg|thumb|right|100px|Oligodendrocyte]]

The term "oligodendrocyte" literally means a "cell with many branches". Oligodendrocyte precursors are found throughout the CNS and these precursors are post-mitotic, meaning oligodendrocytes can be replaced. Oligodendrocytes can [[PNS Structure - Anatomy & Physiology#The Process of Myelination|myelinate]] up to 40 axons at a time. The myelin sheath formed by oligodendrocytes has numerous functions including; decreasing any ion leakage from the axon lowering the capacitance of the cell membrane and increasing impulse speed along the axon by allowing saltatory conduction of action potentials between the nodes of Ranvier.

The term "oligodendrocyte" literally means a "cell with many branches". Oligodendrocyte precursors are found throughout the CNS and these precursors are post-mitotic, meaning oligodendrocytes can be replaced. Oligodendrocytes can [[PNS Structure - Anatomy & Physiology#The Process of Myelination|myelinate]] up to 40 axons at a time. The myelin sheath formed by oligodendrocytes has numerous functions including; decreasing any ion leakage from the axon lowering the capacitance of the cell membrane and increasing impulse speed along the axon by allowing saltatory conduction of action potentials between the nodes of Ranvier.