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

/ shwän,shvän /

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

Always there, sitting in the Schwann cell, unnoticed until damage occurs.

From Science Daily

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

From The Guardian

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

From Scientific American

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.

From Science Magazine

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

From New York Times