Where oligodendrocytes are located?

Oligodendrocytes are one of a class of cells known as
neuroglia, whose function is maintenance and protection of the neurons, or nerve cells.
Oligodendrocytes are found in the central nervous system, primarily in the brain but
also in smaller numbers in the spinal cord. Oligodendrocytes are small, rounded cells
with one or a few processes, or extensions.

There are two
main types; one type acts as satellite cells around the neurons of the gray matter which
forms the active outer layer of the cerebrum, where they function to help maintain ion
balance in the neuron. The other type of oligodendrocyte is usually found in the white
matter where it produces myelin, a fatty substance that functions as an insulating
covering over the axons of neurons.

Oligodendrocytes arise
from stem cells in the central nervous system during fetal development. Malfunctioning
of the oligodendrocytes is believed to be a cause of multiple sclerosis, and is
suspected in several other brain problems including
schizophrenia.