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Axon Insulation

Meaning

Axon insulation refers to the myelin sheath, a protective, fatty layer that encases the long, slender projections of nerve cells called axons. This critical biological structure acts much like the insulation around an electrical wire, preventing signal loss and dramatically increasing the speed of nerve impulse transmission. Proper myelination is essential for coordinating complex physiological functions, including those governed by the neuroendocrine axis. Disruptions to this myelin integrity can profoundly impact communication between the brain and peripheral endocrine glands, leading to functional deficits.