Oligodendrocytes are a type of glial cell found in the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord. Their primary function is to produce myelin, a fatty substance that insulates nerve fibers. This myelin sheath enhances the speed and efficiency of electrical signals transmitted between neurons, facilitating communication within the nervous system.
These cells play a crucial role in maintaining the health of neurons and supporting their function. Damage to oligodendrocytes can lead to neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis, where the myelin sheath is compromised, resulting in impaired nerve signal transmission and various symptoms.