Which of the following statements about oligodendrocytes is correct?

• A. They are responsible for transmitting electrical impulses in neurons.
• B. They function as phagocytic cells in the immune response.
• C. They produce myelin sheaths in the central nervous system.
• D. They are found exclusively in the peripheral nervous system.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the role of oligodendrocytes. Oligodendrocytes are a type of glial cell found in the central nervous system (CNS). Their primary function is to produce myelin sheaths, which insulate axons and enhance the speed of electrical signal transmission.
2. Step 2: Analyze the first statement: 'They are responsible for transmitting electrical impulses in neurons.' This is incorrect because neurons, not oligodendrocytes, are responsible for transmitting electrical impulses. Oligodendrocytes support neurons by providing myelin sheaths.
3. Step 3: Evaluate the second statement: 'They function as phagocytic cells in the immune response.' This is incorrect because phagocytic cells, such as microglia, are responsible for immune responses in the CNS, not oligodendrocytes.
4. Step 4: Assess the third statement: 'They produce myelin sheaths in the central nervous system.' This is correct because oligodendrocytes are specialized for this function in the CNS.
5. Step 5: Review the fourth statement: 'They are found exclusively in the peripheral nervous system.' This is incorrect because oligodendrocytes are found in the CNS, while Schwann cells perform a similar function in the peripheral nervous system (PNS).