Glial cell

Glial cell

A glial cell is a type of cell that is found in the nervous system. These cells are not neurons, but they support and protect neurons in various ways. There are several types of glial cells, including astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia.

Function

Glial cells perform many important functions in the nervous system. They provide structural support for neurons and maintain the environment around neurons. They also play a role in the transmission of nerve impulses, and in the repair and regeneration of neurons.

Astrocytes

Astrocytes are star-shaped glial cells that are found in the brain and spinal cord. They help to maintain the blood-brain barrier, which protects the brain from harmful substances in the blood. Astrocytes also provide nutrients to neurons and regulate the concentration of ions in the extracellular space.

Oligodendrocytes

Oligodendrocytes are glial cells that produce myelin, a fatty substance that insulates nerve fibers and speeds up the transmission of nerve impulses. In the central nervous system, each oligodendrocyte can myelinate several nerve fibers.

Microglia

Microglia are small glial cells that act as the immune cells of the nervous system. They protect neurons from pathogens and remove dead or damaged cells.

Diseases

Dysfunction or damage to glial cells can lead to various neurological disorders, including multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, and glioma, a type of brain tumor. Research is ongoing to understand the role of glial cells in these diseases and to develop new treatments.

See also

• Neuron
• Nervous system
• Neurological disorders

References

Glial cell Resources
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