Which of the following is a function of the myelin sheath?

• A. To increase the speed of nerve impulse conduction
• B. To produce neurotransmitters
• C. To provide nutrients to neurons
• D. To generate action potentials

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the structure of a neuron: Neurons are composed of a cell body, dendrites, and an axon. The axon is often covered by a myelin sheath.
2. Learn about the myelin sheath: The myelin sheath is a fatty layer that wraps around the axon of some neurons. It is produced by glial cells, specifically Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system and oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system.
3. Explore the function of the myelin sheath: The primary function of the myelin sheath is to insulate the axon and increase the speed of electrical impulses (action potentials) as they travel along the neuron.
4. Understand how myelination affects nerve impulse conduction: Myelination allows for saltatory conduction, where the nerve impulse jumps from one node of Ranvier (gaps in the myelin sheath) to the next, significantly increasing conduction speed.
5. Differentiate the functions: Compare the function of the myelin sheath with other options provided, such as producing neurotransmitters, providing nutrients, and generating action potentials, to identify the correct function related to nerve impulse conduction.