What structure functions to insulate and protect the neuronal axons?

The myelin sheath is the structure that functions to insulate and protect neuronal axons. This fatty layer wraps around the axons, facilitating faster transmission of electrical impulses through a process called saltatory conduction. Myelinated axons can conduct impulses more efficiently than unmyelinated ones, as the electrical signal jumps from one node of Ranvier to the next rather than traveling continuously along the entire axon. This insulation also protects the axon from damage and helps maintain the integrity of the signal being sent. In addition to enhancing conduction speed, the myelin sheath is crucial for the overall health and function of the nervous system, as it aids in efficient communication between neurons.