What is a primary function of myelin in the nervous system?

Myelin plays a crucial role in the nervous system by providing insulation around axons of neurons, which is essential for the efficient transmission of electrical impulses. By covering axons, myelin reduces the loss of electrical signals and increases the speed of signal conduction through a process called saltatory conduction, where the action potential jumps between the gaps in the myelin sheath (known as nodes of Ranvier). This insulation also protects the axon from interference that could disrupt the signal, thus ensuring that nerve impulses are transmitted accurately and efficiently to their target cells.

The other functions listed in the choices do not correctly align with the role of myelin. For instance, while neurons do require energy, that function is primarily fulfilled by mitochondria within the cell, not myelin. Myelin does not store genetic information, as that function is primarily associated with the cell nucleus. Additionally, although myelin is crucial for the proper functioning of synaptic transmission by enhancing the speed of impulses, it does not facilitate the actual transmission process itself, which occurs at synapses and involves neurotransmitter release and receptor interaction.