The Myelin Sheath

Myelin is a fatty, protective membrane found around the largest axons that increases the speed of communication along the nerves.

Technically, a nerve fiber consists of an axon, its myelin sheathing, and the cell that makes the myelin.

Myelin is produced by cells called oligodendrocytes inside the central nervous system, and neurolemmocytes in the peripheral system.

Few nerves have myelin sheathing at birth, but the cat's nerves are myelinated quickly, and very effectively.