Ependymal cells

Ependymal cells are a type of neuroglia that line the ventricles of the brain and the central canal of the spinal cord. They are involved in the production and circulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

Function

Ependymal cells are responsible for the production of a portion of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which is a clear, colorless body fluid that is found in the brain and spinal cord. CSF serves as a cushion for the brain, providing basic mechanical and immunological protection to the brain inside the skull.

Ependymal cells also aid in the circulation of CSF. The beating of their cilia helps to move the CSF through the ventricles of the brain and around the spinal cord.

Structure

Ependymal cells are one of the four main types of neuroglia in the central nervous system. They are epithelial cells that line the ventricles of the brain and the central canal of the spinal cord. They have cilia and microvilli that increase the surface area of the cell.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities or damage to ependymal cells can lead to a number of medical conditions. For example, hydrocephalus can occur if the flow of CSF is blocked. This can be due to a tumor, infection, or inflammation that damages the ependymal cells.

Ependymoma is a type of tumor that arises from ependymal cells. These tumors can occur anywhere along the ventricular system or spinal cord where ependymal cells are present.

See also

• Neuroglia
• Ventricles of the brain
• Spinal cord
• Cerebrospinal fluid
• Hydrocephalus
• Ependymoma

References

Ependymal cells Resources
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