The cells of the CNS and PNS respond differently to nerve damage. Most neurons in the central nervous system fail to repair or renew themselves, unlike other cells in the body. Therefore, if neurons die through illness or damage, the nervous system can permanently lose some of its abilities. In contrast, PNS axons readily regenerate, allowing recovery of function after peripheral nerve damage. However, it should be noted that in the case of peripheral nerve damage, although recovery is often possible, recovery to full function can be slow and is not always achieved.