Myelination

Myelination is a process of creating the myelin sheath that surrounds the axons of the nerves, forming an electrically insulating layer (think of the rubber coating that insulates copper wire). Myelin is an outgrowth of the glial cells. Myelination begins in the 3rd trimester and continues through adolescence. This myelin sheath functions as a layer of electrical insulation that is necessary for the nerves to function correctly.