Question

A single Schwann cell forms myelin around one and only one axon while a single oligodendrocyte forms myelin around several separate axons. a. True b. False

Short answer

"A single Schwann cell forms myelin around one and only one axon while a single oligodendrocyte forms myelin around several separate axons." Answer: True

Step-by-step solution

Understand Schwann cells and oligodendrocytes

Schwann cells and oligodendrocytes are glial cells that play a crucial role in the nervous system by producing and maintaining the myelin sheath around axons. The myelin sheath is essential for the proper conduction of electrical impulses along the axons, which allows effective communication between neurons. Schwann cells are found in the peripheral nervous system, while oligodendrocytes are found in the central nervous system.

Differentiate between Schwann cells and oligodendrocytes in myelin formation

The primary difference between Schwann cells and oligodendrocytes lies in their ability to myelinate axons. Schwann cells myelinate a single axon by wrapping their cell membrane around the axon's length. In contrast, oligodendrocytes have multiple extensions that can myelinate several axons simultaneously. These extensions branch out from the cell body, connecting to individual axons, and wrap around each axon segment, forming the myelin sheath.

Evaluate the statement

The given statement states that "A single Schwann cell forms myelin around one and only one axon while a single oligodendrocyte forms myelin around several separate axons." Based on our understanding of Schwann cells and oligodendrocytes, this statement is accurate.

Choose the correct answer

Since the statement is true, the correct answer is: a. True