In vertebrates, axons are surrounded by a myelin sheath that provides electrical insulation. How would the detection and transmission of signals be affected in an organism that experiences demyelination? Describe some of the symptoms you would expect to find in this individual and explain why?

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mww · Answer

the main difference in demyelination is in transmission speed. The myelin sheath enables saltatory conduction so that charge can jump between nodes of Ranvier quickly as the conduit of least resistance. In fact mathematically $$v = kr$$ for myelinated axons and $$v = k \sqrt{r}$$ for demyelinated axons. Thus demyelinated axons conduct much slower for long distances, and may even fail to transmit completely.. More info here: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/multiple-sclerosis/expert-answers/demyelinating-disease/faq-20058521 Multiple sclerosis is a condition you can read about, it basically is a demyelinating disease