Novel function of oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system

One of the most spectacular interactions of cells in the central nervous system is the myelination of axons by oligodendrocytes, which serves the rapid impulse propagation. Max Planck scientists have discovered a novel function of oligodendrocytes in the metabolic support of myelinated axons. Genetic evidence suggests that oligodendrocytes are glycolytic cells that release lactate as an energy-rich metabolite. Loss of this trophic function of oligodendrocytes may play a critical role in inherited and acquired myelin diseases.