What are myelin sheaths?

Neurons have long axons that can carry electrical signals across the body. Myelin sheaths are fatty layers that wrap around axons and insulate them. Therefore, myelin sheaths allow electrical signals to be conducted quickly across the long axons. For example, you are able to move your leg straight away when you think about moving it, but if your neurons had less myelin sheaths, then this same action would take longer.

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