Question

Schwann cells are glial cells responsible for __________.

a.producing the myelination around peripheral axons

b.surrounding nerve cell bodies in peripheral ganglia

c.phagocytic activities in the neural tissue of the PNS

d.secreting cerebrospinal fluid

Answer 1

Schwann cells are specialized glial cells in the peripheral nervous system responsible for producing the myelin sheath around individual peripheral axons, ensuring faster signal transmission and axonal protection. Option a.

Step-by-step explanation:

Schwann Cells and Myelination

Schwann cells are glial cells responsible for producing the myelination around peripheral axons(A). A Schwann cell is unique in that it wraps around a single portion of an axon segment, insulating it with a myelin sheath in the peripheral nervous system (PNS). Unlike oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system (CNS), which can insulate multiple axon segments, Schwann cells dedicate themselves to the myelination of just one axon segment, with their nucleus and cytoplasm lying at the edge of this sheath.

While other glial cells have roles such as maintaining the extracellular environment, providing structural support, scavenging pathogens, and producing cerebrospinal fluid, the primary function of Schwann cells is the myelination of peripheral nerves, which enhances the speed of nerve impulse conduction and protects the axons.