Myelin

Myelin is a specialized, lipid-rich substance that forms an insulating layer, or sheath, around the axons of neurons in both the central and peripheral nervous systems [1]. It is produced by oligodendrocytes in the CNS and Schwann cells in the PNS, facilitating the rapid and efficient transmission of electrical impulses via saltatory conduction [3]. Beyond insulation, myelin provides essential metabolic and trophic support to axons, maintaining neuronal integrity and preventing degeneration [5]. In various demyelinating diseases, most notably Multiple Sclerosis, the myelin sheath is damaged by autoimmune attacks or genetic defects, leading to impaired signal transduction and progressive neurological disability [2]. Therapeutic strategies involving myelin focus on two main areas: immunomodulation to prevent further damage (e.g., using myelin-mimetic peptides) and regenerative medicine to promote remyelination by stimulating the differentiation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells [4].

Other names

Myelin sheathMedullary sheath

Immunomodulation through decoy peptides and stimulation of oligodendrocyte precursor cell (OPC) differentiation to restore axonal insulation.