Answer :
Final answer:
The myelin sheath is a fatty covering on neurons that greatly enhances the speed of signal transmission within the cell. It acts as an insulator, preventing signal dissipation, and also reduces cross talk between adjacent nerves. Nodes of Ranvier, gaps in the sheath, serve to 'recharge' the signal as it travels.
Explanation:
The structure being referred to in the question is the myelin sheath, a fatty coating that surrounds some neuronal structures, specifically the axons. The myelin sheath acts as an insulator for the neuron, enhancing the speed of transmission of signals within the cell. This coating is produced by glial cells and, interestingly, is not actually a part of the neuron itself.
This sheath prevents signals from dissipating as they travel down the axon. Additionally, it prevents signal cross talk between adjacent nerves. Periodically along the axon, there are gaps in the myelin sheath known as nodes of Ranvier. These nodes serve as sites to 'recharge' or regenerate the signal as it travels, furthering the efficiency of the conduction process.
Unmyelinated neurons conduct signals at a slower rate, indicating the key role myelin plays in rapid signal transmission. Essentially, when a neuron is covered with a myelin sheath, the speed of signal transmission multiplies by a factor of 10, leading to much faster communication between neurons and hence more efficient functioning of the nervous system.
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