Myelin is an insulating layer that forms around nerves, including those in the brain and spinal cord. It is made up of protein and fatty substances.
The purpose of the myelin sheath is to allow impulses to transmit quickly and efficiently along the nerve cells. If myelin is damaged, the impulses slow down. This can cause diseases such as
In the United States, we have several non-profit MS-related organizations involved with conducting research, supporting research, or... Read more »
ANSWER TO QUESTION REGARDING "OVERLAPPING ARTHRITIS" From a reader: "I have an overlapping arthritis, based on my last x-rays, I have... Read more »
A cure would stop MS in its tracks, prevent new symptoms, stop - not just slow - progression, and hopefully even reverse damage. There are... Read more »
Several models have been developed that describe the progressive worsening of symptoms and the loss of function of Alzheimer's disease. One... Read more »
When a child exhibits MS-like symptoms, it probably means he or she has a problem with myelin. Whether the diagnosis turns out to be MS or... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
CSF myelin basic protein is a test to measure the level of myelin basic protein (MBP) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), the clear liquid that... Read more »
Source: HealthCentral Encyclopedia
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) is a progressive motor and sensory neuropathy (nerve disorder) characterized by weakness and atrophy, primarily in... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is a group of inherited disorders that affect the peripheral nerves (those outside the brain and spine).Alternative... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
Krabbe disease is a rare genetic disorder of the nervous system. It is a type of leukodystrophy. Alternative Names Globoid cell... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
Canavan disease is an inherited condition that affects the breakdown and use (metabolism) of aspartic acid. Alternative Names Spongy... Read more »