oligodendrocyte
/ˌɑlɪɡoʊˈdɛndrəsaɪt/
noun
- A type of cell in the brain and spinal cord that produces myelin, a fatty substance that insulates nerve fibers and helps them send signals quickly.
- Damage to oligodendrocytes can slow down nerve signals and cause coordination problems.
- Scientists are studying how to repair oligodendrocytes after spinal cord injuries.
- Oligodendrocytes are essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system.