Demyelination can readily explain conduction failure within the affected axon. If conduction does not completely fail, conduction velocity can nonetheless be slowed and differential slowing across different axons can cause variable conduction delays that result in desynchronized spiking.

Why does myelin loss affect the conduction of action potentials?

Myelin reduces membrane leakiness by preventing open channels and as a result, increasing how far a single electrical impulse within the axon will travel. Importantly this also increases how quickly an action potential will travel down an axon – myelin greatly increases the conduction velocity of a neuron (Figure 2.3.

What are the effects of demyelination?

Demyelinating diseases can affect a wide range of body functions. Vision: It can lead to blurred or double vision or a loss of vision that may be temporary or permanent. Reflexes and movement: Changes to the motor system can lead to muscle weakness, stiffness, spasms, and problems with balance.