What is the main role of myelin in the nervous system?

Myelin serves a crucial function in the nervous system by insulating axons, which are the long, slender projections of neurons. This insulation is essential because it increases the speed at which electrical impulses, known as action potentials, travel along the axon. The presence of myelin allows for a process called saltatory conduction, where the impulse jumps from one node of Ranvier (gaps in the myelin sheath) to another, significantly accelerating signal transmission compared to unmyelinated axons.

This insulation is vital for efficient communication within the nervous system, particularly in long-distance signaling, where rapid transmission can lead to quicker reflexes and response times. Different types of cells contribute to myelin formation: in the central nervous system, oligodendrocytes are responsible for producing myelin, while Schwann cells perform this role in the peripheral nervous system.

The other options provided represent functions that are not related to myelin. For instance, transmitting signals between neurons is primarily the role of neurotransmitters, which are released from one neuron and received by another. Producing neurotransmitters refers to the role of specific neuronal processes and structures, not myelin itself. Facilitating muscle movement is linked to motor neurons and muscle fibers, and while these are