The long, thin process extending from the cell body is called an axon. Axons are the structures which transmit a signal from one neuron to another cell. Any problem in breaking down or forming myelin will affect the nervous system resulting in symptoms of Leukodystrophy. Symptoms include difficulties with walking, talking, seeing and thinking. These problems often worsen as an individual ages, since more and more of the myelin contains unusual components and is lost.
Demyelination is the loss of myelin from nerves.
Psychosine is a lipid formed from breakdown of cerebroside and it is very toxic to cells. It is not usually present in the body in measurable amounts. Oligodendrocytes, the myelin synthesizing cells in the central nervous system, are killed when psychosine is not degraded as usual. There are specialized proteins in the body, called enzymes, which are responsible for the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats and other proteins. Enzyme activity is a measure of how well the enzyme does its job.