Molecule tells key brain cells to grow up, get to work
Wednesday, March 10, 2010 - 16:28
in Biology & Nature
About four out of every 10 cells in the brain are so-called oligodendrocytes. These cells produce the all-important myelin that coats nerve tracts, ensuring fast, energy-efficient transmission of nerve impulses. Scientists have now identified a molecular master switch that catalyzes these cells' transition to mature, myelin-making mavens.