Myelin sheath

The myelin sheath is the protective fatty layer that insulates nerve fibers, ensuring that electrical signals travel quickly across the brain. Repetitive hits can "fray" this insulation, leading to signal leakage and slowed brain function. Think of it as the rubber coating on an electrical wire.

FAQ

It ensures signals for movement and thought travel quickly through the brain.

Yes, repetitive subconcussive impacts can fray this protective layer.

DTI scans track white matter integrity over a season, giving researchers a direct measure of whether repetitive impacts are degrading the myelin-insulated fibers that carry brain signals.