Glial cells

Glial cells are non-neuronal cells in the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and the peripheral nervous system. They maintain homeostasis, form myelin, and provide support and protection for neurons. In the central nervous system, glial cells include oligodendrocytes, astrocytes, ependymal cells, and microglia, and in the peripheral nervous system, glial cells include Schwann cells and satellite cells.

Function

Glial cells perform many important functions, including:

• Biochemical support of endothelial cells: Glial cells provide nutrients to nervous tissue and regulate the concentration of extracellular ions and neurotransmitters.
• Provision of myelin for neurons: In the central nervous system, oligodendrocytes provide myelin for neurons, while in the peripheral nervous system, Schwann cells perform this function.
• Maintenance of homeostasis: Astrocytes control the chemical environment around neurons by removing excess ions and recycling neurotransmitters.
• Immune response: Microglia and astrocytes act as the first and main form of active immune defense in the central nervous system.

Types of Glial Cells

There are several types of glial cells, each with its own function:

• Oligodendrocytes: These cells provide support and insulation to axons in the central nervous system.
• Astrocytes: These star-shaped cells have many functions, including biochemical support of endothelial cells, provision of nutrients to the nervous tissue, and maintenance of extracellular ion balance.
• Microglia: These cells act as the first and main form of active immune defense in the central nervous system.
• Ependymal Cells: These cells line the ventricles of the brain and the central canal of the spinal cord.
• Schwann Cells: These cells form the myelin sheath in the peripheral nervous system.
• Satellite Cells: These cells provide physical support to neurons in the peripheral nervous system.

See Also

• Neuron
• Nervous system
• Central nervous system
• Peripheral nervous system

Glial cells Resources
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