Myelin is a white, fatty substance that covers and protects the nerves in the brain and spinal cord. It is made up of lipids and proteins, and it is produced by oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system (CNS). Myelin acts as an insulator, allowing electrical impulses to travel quickly and efficiently from one nerve cell to another. Without myelin, our nervous system would not be able to function properly.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease that attacks the myelin sheath, causing it to break down. This breakdown disrupts communication between the brain and the body, leading to symptoms like muscle weakness, loss of coordination, numbness, and vision problems. MS can be debilitating, but there are treatments available that can help people manage their symptoms and live relatively normal lives.