Which glial cell type myelinates the optic nerve?

Study for the NBEO Ocular Anatomy Posterior Segment and Cranial Nerves Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, complete with hints and detailed explanations. Prepare effectively for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which glial cell type myelinates the optic nerve?

Explanation:
The optic nerve is part of the central nervous system, so its axons are myelinated by oligodendrocytes, which wrap myelin around multiple CNS axons. Schwann cells, by contrast, myelinate axons in the peripheral nervous system. Astrocytes provide support and help maintain the neural environment, while microglia act as immune cells and do not form myelin. This CNS location of the optic nerve explains why oligodendrocytes are responsible for its myelination.

The optic nerve is part of the central nervous system, so its axons are myelinated by oligodendrocytes, which wrap myelin around multiple CNS axons. Schwann cells, by contrast, myelinate axons in the peripheral nervous system. Astrocytes provide support and help maintain the neural environment, while microglia act as immune cells and do not form myelin. This CNS location of the optic nerve explains why oligodendrocytes are responsible for its myelination.

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