Author Question: Explain how the presence of myelin on an axon speeds up conduction velocity. What will be an ... (Read 95 times)

Mr3Hunna · **on:** Jun 22, 2018

Explain how the presence of myelin on an axon speeds up conduction velocity.

What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

Compare and contrast the general functions of the three glial cell types in the brain.

What will be an ideal response?

sylvia · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 22, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Answer: In saltatory conduction, the axon is wrapped in a fatty membrane called myelin, which
insulates the membrane from the extracellular fluid. In this case, the action potential does not have to depolarize every segment of membrane, only those at the widely separated nodes of Ranvier (gaps between the myelin segments).

Answer to Question 2

Answer: Oligodendrocytes form CNS myelin, which speeds up neural conduction speed. Astroglia provide support and nutrition for neurons. Microglia are involved in brain immune
function.