What Is Myelination in Brain Development?

Myelination is characterized by the acquisition of the highly specialized myelin membrane around axons. It begins before birth within the caudal brain stem and progresses rostrally to the forebrain, with the most rapid and dramatic period of human central myelination within the first 2 years of postnatal life.

What is myelination and its purpose?

Myelin is an insulating layer, or sheath that forms around nerves, including those in the brain and spinal cord. ... This myelin sheath allows electrical impulses to transmit quickly and efficiently along the nerve cells. If myelin is damaged, these impulses slow down. This can cause diseases such as multiple sclerosis.

What is the developmental pattern of myelination?

Myelination begins early in the 3rd trimester with the most rapid period of myelination occurring in the first two years of life. The myelination process follows a specific time course and pattern. ... This myelination pattern correlates with the progressive head-to-toe acquisition of developmental milestones.