GLOSSARY

A Schwann cell is the main glial cell of the peripheral nervous system; it forms the myelin sheath around peripheral axons and plays a key role in repairing damaged nerves; it is named after the German physiologist Theodor Schwann.

Characteristics

• One cell, one segment: each Schwann cell forms one myelin segment (between two nodes of Ranvier) on one axon.
• Wrapping the axon: the cell membrane wraps many times around the axon, forming multiple layers of myelin.
• Non-myelinating Schwann cells: enclose several thin unmyelinated axons (C fibres), forming Remak bundles.

Role in Repair