What are Oligodendrocytes?

Oligodendrocytes are a type of macroglial cells found in the central nervous system. Most of the oligodendrocytes develop during embryogenesis and early postnatal life. Their main function is to provide support and insulation to the neuronal axons.

What is Myelin?

Oligodendrocytes are responsible for the formation of a lipid-rich substance, called myelin, in the central nervous system. In the peripheral nervous system, myelin is formed by Schwann cells. Myelin has a vital role as it surrounds nerve cell axons to protect and insulate them. The myelin sheaths speed up the transmission of electrical impulses along the axon. In some cases, myelin is damaged which slows or even stops nerve impulses and that leads to serious neurological diseases such as Multiple sclerosis.

Myelin Basic Protein (MBP) is the major protein component of myelin sheath and MBP antibody is used as an oligodendrocyte marker.

Oligodendrocyte research requires a great diversity of life science products. We are dedicated to developing cutting edge research products to aid in the study of oligodendrocytes.