Myelin Formation and Plasticity in the Central Nervous System

During development, oligodendrocytes generate myelin sheaths that insulate axons, thereby enabling rapid signal conduction and providing essential metabolic support to neurons in the central nervous system (CNS). Subsequent to its initial formation, myelin undergoes adaptive remodeling in response to neuronal activity and environmental stimuli, thereby enabling dynamic regulation of neuronal circuits throughout life. Myelin formation and plasticity are critical for efficient neuronal communication, and disruptions in these processes have been implicated in neurodegenerative diseases and psychiatric disorders such as multiple sclerosis, leukodystrophies, and autism spectrum disorders. Therefore, elucidating the molecular mechanisms that govern myelin dynamics is essential for the development of strategies to preserve or restore CNS function. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the structural complexity of myelin, elucidates some of the molecular mechanisms that underpin its formation, and underscores its adaptive characteristics, particularly myelin plasticity in behavior.