MYELINIZATION Meaning and
Definition
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Myelinization refers to the process of forming or developing myelin sheaths around nerve fibers in the nervous system. Myelin is a fatty substance that wraps around the axons of neurons, acting as an insulating layer to help speed up and enhance the transmission of electrical signals between nerve cells. The myelin sheath is composed of multiple layers of lipid-rich material, which creates a white, protective covering.
During myelinization, specialized cells called oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system (CNS) and Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) produce and deposit myelin around the axons. This process begins during early development and continues throughout infancy, childhood, and adolescence, but can also occur in adulthood in response to learning and experience.
Myelinization plays a crucial role in the efficient functioning of the nervous system. By insulating the nerve fibers, it enables rapid and synchronized transmission of nerve impulses, allowing for quick and reliable communication between different parts of the body. This process is essential for normal motor and sensory functions, as well as higher cognitive processes, such as memory, attention, and learning.
Disruptions or delays in myelinization can lead to neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis or leukodystrophies, which can result in impaired movement, sensation, and cognition. Therefore, understanding the process and regulation of myelinization is important for studying the development, function, and potential treatments of various neurological conditions.
Common Misspellings for MYELINIZATION
Etymology of MYELINIZATION
The word "myelinization" is derived from the term "myelin" and the suffix "-ization".
The term "myelin" originates from the Greek word "myelos", meaning "marrow" or "substance within bones". It was first used in medical contexts in the mid-19th century and refers to the fatty substance that coats and insulates nerve fibers, enabling efficient transmission of signals between neurons.
The suffix "-ization" comes from the Latin word "-izare" or the Greek word "-izein", which both mean "to make" or "to become". By adding this suffix to "myelin", the resulting word "myelinization" signifies the process or state of becoming myelinated. It describes the formation or development of myelin sheaths around nerve fibers, a crucial process in the maturation of the nervous system.
Similar spelling words for MYELINIZATION
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