Axolemma

/ˌæk.soʊˈlem.ə/ noun

Definition

The membrane or outer covering that surrounds the axon of a nerve cell.

Etymology

From Greek 'axon' (axle/axis) + 'lemma' (from Greek 'lemma' meaning 'husk,' 'peel,' or 'outer covering'). In biology, '-lemma' refers to outer protective layers.

Kelly Says

The axolemma is one of the brain's most important gatekeepers—it selectively controls what ions can enter and exit the axon, which is absolutely crucial for nerve signals to work; damage to it causes neurological diseases like ALS.

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