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I_am_ZAN t1_j0z1xui wrote

Highly technical paper beyond my understanding. Authors do not spend any time going into detail about therapeutic impact or explaining the terms. Can we get a neuroscientist to translate?

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Northern_Grouse t1_j0zduvo wrote

White matter is found in the deeper tissues of the brain (subcortical). It contains nerve fibers (axons), which are extensions of nerve cells (neurons). Many of these nerve fibers are surrounded by a type of sheath or covering called myelin. Myelin gives the white matter its color. It also protects the nerve fibers from injury. Also, it improves the speed and transmission of electrical nerve signals along extensions of the nerve cells called axons.

I had to look it up. I wonder what impact this has on the overall neural function of a person.

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No-Leg-3315 t1_j13fd92 wrote

It allows for the electrical signal to not dissipate out of the axon allowing for a faster and stronger signal. Just think insulation.

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Northern_Grouse t1_j13s9pi wrote

That’s fascinating. How is that being presented with patients? Improved motor control?

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No-Leg-3315 t1_j13whgc wrote

Could be depends which axons are myelinated, some language areas never stop being myelinated.

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