The Node of Ranvier is a small gap in the myelin sheath of a nerve fiber, allowing for the rapid conduction of nerve impulses. It plays a critical role in the propagation of action potentials along myelinated neurons.
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Myelin Sheath: A fatty layer that surrounds nerves, providing insulation and increasing the speed at which impulses propagate along the nerve fiber.
Action potential: A temporary reversal in the electrical polarization of the membrane of a neuron or muscle cell, allowing for communication between cells.
Axon: A long, slender projection of a neuron that conducts electrical impulses away from the neuron's cell body