Prof. Elior Peles

Myelin is an insulating membrane sheath produces by specialized glial cells; Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) and oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system (CNS). It enables fast and efficient nerve conduction, and provides essential trophic support to maintain axonal integrity and survival. Destruction of myelin leads to several neurological diseases such as multiple sclerosis, and is also associated with psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. We study the various aspects of myelinating glial cells biology, and in particular interested in the mechanisms that enable Schwann cells and oligodendrocytes to ensheath the axons they contact and to myelinate them.