What is the Difference Between Schwann Cell and Myelin Sheath?

The myelin sheath is a concentrically laminated membrane structure that surrounds an axon, providing electrical insulation and significantly increasing the speed of signal transmission between neurons. Schwann cells are specialized cells in the peripheral nervous system that produce the myelin sheath around a neuron's axon. The main differences between Schwann cells and the myelin sheath are:

1. Cell type: Schwann cells are cells that make myelin in the peripheral nervous system (PNS), while oligodendrocytes make myelin in the central nervous system (CNS).
2. Myelin production: In the PNS, one Schwann cell forms a single myelin sheath around an axon. In contrast, oligodendrocytes in the CNS send out cell processes to myelinate multiple segments on many axons.
3. Location: Schwann cells are present in the peripheral nervous system, while oligodendrocytes are present in the central nervous system.

In summary, Schwann cells are the cells responsible for producing the myelin sheath in the peripheral nervous system, while the myelin sheath is the insulating structure that surrounds axons and enhances signal transmission.

Comparative Table: Schwann Cell vs Myelin Sheath

Here is a table comparing the differences between Schwann cells and myelin sheath:

In summary, Schwann cells are glial cells responsible for forming the myelin sheath around axons in the peripheral nervous system, while the myelin sheath is an insulating cover that helps increase the speed of nerve impulses traveling along the axons.