Neuroglial

Neuroglial cells, often referred to as simply glial cells or glia, are non-neuronal cells that maintain homeostasis, form myelin, and provide support and protection for neurons in the brain and peripheral nervous system. They are the most abundant cell types in the central nervous system.

Types of Neuroglial Cells

There are four main types of neuroglial cells in the central nervous system: Astrocytes, Oligodendrocytes, Microglia, and Ependymal cells. In the peripheral nervous system, the main types of neuroglial cells are Schwann cells and Satellite cells.

Astrocytes

Astrocytes are star-shaped glial cells in the brain and spinal cord. They perform many functions, including biochemical support of endothelial cells that form the blood–brain barrier, provision of nutrients to the nervous tissue, maintenance of extracellular ion balance, and a role in the repair and scarring process of the brain and spinal cord following traumatic injuries.

Oligodendrocytes

Oligodendrocytes are a type of neuroglia. Their main functions are to provide support and insulation to axons in the central nervous system of some vertebrates, equivalent to the function performed by Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system.

Microglia

Microglia are a type of glial cell located throughout the brain and spinal cord. They are the resident macrophages of the brain and spinal cord, and thus act as the first and main form of active immune defense in the central nervous system.

Ependymal Cells

Ependymal cells are a type of glial cell. They line the ventricles of the brain and the central canal of the spinal cord. They are involved in the production of cerebrospinal fluid.

Schwann Cells

Schwann cells or neurolemmocytes are the principal glia of the peripheral nervous system. Glial cells function to support neurons and in the PNS, also include satellite cells, olfactory ensheathing cells, enteric glia and glia that reside at sensory nerve endings, such as the Pacinian corpuscle.

Satellite Cells

Satellite glial cells are glial cells that cover the surface of nerve cell bodies in sensory, sympathetic, and parasympathetic ganglia.

Functions of Neuroglial Cells

Neuroglial cells perform a variety of tasks, from axon guidance and synaptic support, to the control of the blood brain barrier and blood flow. They are crucial for the normal function of the nervous system.

See Also

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