Oligodendrocytes

Oligodendrocytes are a type of glial cells whose main function is to insulate the axons in the central nervous system of the higher vertebrates. A single oligodendrocyte can reach to up to 50 axons, wrapping around approximately 1 mm of each and forming the myelin sheath.

Oligodendrocytes are responsible for producing a myelin, which insulates axons. Oligodendrocytes wrap the myelin around the axons in thin sheets like rolled up paper, nourishing and supporting them.