Schwann cell

noun

Biology.

1. a cell of the peripheral nervous system that wraps around a nerve fiber, jelly-roll fashion, forming the myelin sheath.

Schwann cell

1. Any of the cells that cover the axons in the peripheral nervous system and form the myelin sheath.

2. See more at myelin

Word History and Origins

Origin of Schwann cell¹

1930–35; after T. Schwann, who first described it

Example Sentences

Damage then prompted Mitf to relocate from the cytoplasm of the cell to the nucleus, where it would direct the Schwann cell to make repairs.

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These are a type of Schwann cell, which wrap around and engulf nerve cells and help to keep them alive.

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Of particular concern are benign Schwann cell tumors called acoustic neuromas, which affect nerve cells connecting the inner ear with structures inside the brain.

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The hearts of 2% to 6% of male rats in the cellphone groups also developed a tumor in what’s known as a Schwann cell, which is part of the sheath around nerves.

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The F.D.A. approvals of Schwann cell transplantation opens the door for therapy in humans.

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