Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of glial cell in the central nervous system: An oligodendrocyte is a specialized cell whose primary function is to produce the myelin sheath that insulates axons of neurons in the brain and spinal cord.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The oligodendrocyte is crucial for the rapid transmission of neural signals.
  • Damage to oligodendrocytes can lead to diseases like multiple sclerosis.
  • Under the microscope, the researcher identified the star-shaped oligodendrocyte.

Advanced Usage

• "oligodendrocyte progenitor cell (OPC)": A precursor cell that can develop into a mature oligodendrocyte.
  • Scientists are studying oligodendrocyte progenitor cells to understand remyelination.

Variants and Related Words

• Oligodendroglia (noun): The collective term for tissue composed of oligodendrocytes.
  • Oligodendroglia provide support and insulation to neurons.

Synonyms

• Myelin-producing glial cell: A descriptive synonym highlighting its primary function.
• Central nervous system glial cell: A broader term specifying its location and cell type.

Related Terms and Phrases

• Myelination (noun): The process by which oligodendrocytes form myelin sheaths.
  • Proper myelination by oligodendrocytes is essential for healthy nervous system function.
• Demyelination (noun): The damage or loss of the myelin sheath, often involving oligodendrocytes.
  • Demyelination disrupts the electrical insulation provided by oligodendrocytes.

Noun

1. a cell of the oligodendroglia