Oligodendrocyte Physiology Modulating Axonal Excitability and Nerve Conduction

Abstract

Oligodendrocytes enable saltatory conduction by forming a myelin sheath around axons, dramatically boosts action potential conduction velocity. In addition to this canonical function of oligodendrocytes, it is now known that oligodendrocytes can respond to neuronal activity and regulate axonal conduction. Importantly, white matter plasticity, including adaptive responses by oligodendrocytes, has been shown to be involved in learning and memory. In this chapter, the role of oligodendrocytes in axonal conduction and axonal excitability will be reviewed. Focus will be paid to the mechanisms through which oligodendrocytes, including perineuronal oligodendrocytes, facilitate and suppress axonal conduction.