Cells involved in myelin formation around axons in peripheral nervous system are:
In the central nervous system (CNS), oligodendrocytes are the cells that form myelin sheaths around axons. But the question specifically asks about the peripheral nervous system (PNS). For the PNS, I remember that Schwann cells are the ones responsible. So the correct answer should be Schwann cells.
Now, the options might include other cells like astrocytes, microglia, or even oligodendrocytes. Let's break down the possible distractors. Option A could be astrocytes, which are CNS cells involved in supporting neurons and forming the blood-brain barrier, but they don't produce myelin. Option B might be microglia, which are immune cells in the CNS, so definitely not involved in myelination. Option C could be oligodendrocytes, which are CNS myelinating cells, making them incorrect for the PNS question. Option D is likely Schwann cells, the correct answer.
I should also remember that Schwann cells wrap around a single axon to form the myelin sheath, which is crucial for rapid nerve impulse conduction. This is a high-yield fact for exams like NEET PG or USMLE. The clinical pearl here is to distinguish Schwann cells (PNS) from oligodendrocytes (CNS) as a common exam point.
**Core Concept**
Myelin sheaths in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) are formed by Schwann cells, whereas oligodendrocytes perform this role in the central nervous system (CNS). This distinction is critical for understanding nerve conduction and demyelinating disorders.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Schwann cells are glial cells in the PNS that envelop axons with myelin, enabling saltatory conduction of action potentials. Each Schwann cell myelinates a single axon segment, forming concentric layers of lipid-rich myelin. This insulation increases conduction velocity and reduces energy expenditure. Schwann cells also support axonal regeneration after injury, unlike their CNS counterparts.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Astrocytes are CNS glial cells involved in maintaining blood-brain barrier and ion homeostasis, not myelination.
**Option B:** Microglia are CNS immune cells; they phagocytose debris and pathogens but do not form myelin.
**Option C:** Oligodendrocytes myelinate axons in the CNS, not the PNS, making this incorrect for the question’s context.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Remember **"Schwann for the PNS, oligo for the CNS"** to avoid confusion. Demyelinating diseases like Guillain-Barré syndrome (PNS) involve Schwann cell dysfunction, while multiple sclerosis (CNS) affects oligodendrocytes. This distinction is vital for diagnosing and managing neurologic conditions.
**Correct Answer: D. Schwann cells**