Remyelination
Remyelination
Remyelination (pronunciation: re-my-uh-lin-ay-shun) is a biological process that involves the regeneration of the myelin sheath around damaged nerve fibers in the central nervous system (CNS). This process is crucial for the restoration of normal neural function following demyelinating diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
Etymology
The term 'Remyelination' is derived from the prefix 're-', meaning 'again' or 'back', and 'myelination', which refers to the formation of the myelin sheath. Thus, remyelination essentially means the reformation or regeneration of the myelin sheath.
Process
Remyelination is a complex process that involves several stages. Initially, oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) are activated and proliferate at the site of myelin damage. These OPCs then differentiate into mature oligodendrocytes, which are responsible for the production of new myelin. The newly formed myelin sheath wraps around the damaged nerve fibers, restoring their ability to conduct electrical impulses efficiently.
Related Terms
- Demyelination: The process of damage or loss of the myelin sheath surrounding nerve fibers in the CNS.
- Oligodendrocyte: A type of cell in the CNS that produces the myelin sheath.
- Multiple Sclerosis: A chronic disease of the CNS characterized by the damage to the myelin sheath and nerve fibers.
- Neuroregeneration: The regrowth or repair of nervous tissues, cells or cell products.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Remyelination
- Wikipedia's article - Remyelination
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