English: A myelin sheath is a protective band made up of proteins and fatty acids that surrounds the nerves like that on the spinal cord. It is formed by myelinating Schwann cells that wrap around the axon. The Schwann cells do not only create the myelin sheath, but also help protect the axon. The myelin sheath’s purpose is to allow the impulses from nerve cells to transmit quicker and fluently. It also prevents charges from leaking out of the nerves.

1. Axon 2. Nucleus of Schwann Cell 3. Schwann Cell 4. Myelin Sheath

5. Neurilemma