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
What is the nervous system designed to do? Nerves make the arms and legs move. Nerves make the heart beat and the lungs breathe.... Read more »
Who knew that changes that result from going through menopause could be the culprit that causes some women to have a painful mouth? New... Read more »
In the United States, we have several non-profit MS-related organizations involved with conducting research, supporting research, or... Read more »
Doctor Sethi has graciously agreed to answer some questions posed by readers and here they are: 1. This first question comes... Read more »
On those days when we’re having a bad flare or wondering if we’ll ever find a pain medication that helps, it’s easy to get... 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: ADAM Encyclopedia
The central nervous system is composed of the brain and spinal cord. Your brain and spinal cord serve as the main "processing center" for the entire... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
ReferencesReichman WE, Cummings JL. Dementia. In: Duthie EH, Katz PR, Malone ML, eds. Practice of Geriatrics. 4th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
InformationAs people age, their brain and nervous system go through natural changes. The brain and spinal cord lose nerve cells and weight. Nerve... Read more »
New research suggests that the drug Tysabri may regenerate and stabilize damage done to the myelin sheath in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). In... Read more »