Understand the role of myelin: Myelin is a fatty substance that surrounds the axons of neurons, providing insulation and increasing the speed of electrical impulses.
Identify the location: The spinal cord is part of the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the brain and spinal cord.
Recognize the types of cells involved in myelination: In the CNS, myelination is performed by oligodendrocytes, whereas in the peripheral nervous system (PNS), Schwann cells are responsible for myelination.
Differentiate between cell types: Oligodendrocytes are specific to the CNS and form myelin sheaths around multiple axons, while Schwann cells are found in the PNS and wrap around a single axon.
Conclude the correct cell type: Since the spinal cord is part of the CNS, oligodendrocytes are the cells that form myelin in this region.