Understanding Schwann Cells: Their Functions and Role in Neurological Disorders

Schwann cells are a type of cell that provides support and insulation to nerve fibers in the peripheral nervous system. They are named after the German physiologist Theodor Schwann, who first described them in the 19th century.

Schwann cells are produced from the neural crest, a type of stem cell that gives rise to many different types of cells in the body. They are found throughout the peripheral nervous system, including the nerves that connect the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord) to the rest of the body.

One of the key functions of Schwann cells is to produce a substance called myelin, which is a fatty insulating layer that surrounds the axons of nerve fibers. Myelin helps to speed up the transmission of electrical signals along the nerve fibers by reducing the resistance to the flow of ions. It also helps to protect the nerve fibers from damage and supports their survival.

In addition to producing myelin, Schwann cells provide structural support to the nerve fibers and help to maintain the integrity of the nerve tissue. They can also repair damaged nerve fibers by producing new myelin and supporting the regeneration of the axons.

Overall, Schwann cells play a critical role in the functioning of the peripheral nervous system, and their dysfunction has been implicated in a range of neurological disorders, including multiple sclerosis and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.