Define neuroglia and it's types
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neuroglia types CNS PNS glial cells definition
Neuroglia (glial cells) are the non-neuronal supporting cells of the nervous system. They protect, nourish, support, and maintain the environment around neurons. Unlike neurons, they do not primarily conduct nerve impulses.
Types of neuroglia
1. Central nervous system (CNS) neuroglia
Found in the brain and spinal cord:
- Astrocytes: Provide structural and metabolic support to neurons, help regulate the extracellular environment, and contribute to the blood-brain barrier.
- Oligodendrocytes: Form the myelin sheath around axons in the CNS.
- Microglia: Immune and phagocytic cells of the CNS. They remove debris and pathogens.
- Ependymal cells: Line the ventricles of the brain and central canal of the spinal cord. They help produce and circulate cerebrospinal fluid.
2. Peripheral nervous system (PNS) neuroglia
Found in peripheral nerves and ganglia:
- Schwann cells: Form myelin around peripheral nerve axons and help in regeneration of damaged peripheral nerves.
- Satellite cells: Surround neuron cell bodies in peripheral ganglia and regulate their local environment.
In short:
CNS: Astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, microglia, ependymal cells.
PNS: Schwann cells and satellite cells.
CNS: Astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, microglia, ependymal cells.
PNS: Schwann cells and satellite cells.
This classification is consistent with Histology: A Text and Atlas with Correlated Cell and Molecular Biology, which identifies four central glial cell types and peripheral glia including Schwann and satellite cells.
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