Myelin

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Myelin - gives the white matter in the brain its characteristic colour

in PNS - formed by Schwann cells

in CNS - formed by oligodendrocytes

What is myelin?

membranous structure generated by the compaction of concentric lamellae of oligodendrocyte (or Schwann cell) plasma membranes

Functions of myelin:

speed conduction of electrical impulses along axons

shape the axon during development

support axonal integrity throughout life

Myelin disorders can be caused by:

inflammatory/autoimmune mediated damage

intrinsic defects

damage to developing oligodendrocytes

*Multiple sclerosis MS, is the archetypal demyelinating disease

- inflammatory, demyelinating disease of the CNS

X-ALD:

childhood and adolescent onset

X linked recessive mode of inheritance

adrenal atrophy

extensive demyelination

markedly shortened lifespan

Vanishing white matter disease (VWM)

Hypomyelination syndrome in Weimaraner dogs