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Questions and Answers
Which type of glial cell is responsible for producing the myelin sheath around axons of neurons in the central nervous system?
Which cells are responsible for forming the blood-brain barrier?
Which type of glial cell is derived from precursor cells in the bone marrow?
What specific function do Schwann cells perform?
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Which type of glial cell lines the cavities of the central nervous system?
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Which function is not performed by astrocytes?
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What function do microglia perform in the nervous system?
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Study Notes
Glial Cells
- Glial cells are 10 times more abundant than neurons and provide a suitable microenvironment for neuronal activity.
Types of Glial Cells
- There are several types of glial cells, including:
- Oligodendrocytes: responsible for producing the myelin sheath around axons in the Central Nervous System (CNS)
- Schwann Cells: produce the myelin sheath and each cell forms myelin around one axon
- Astrocytes: star-shaped cells with multiple radiating processes, which can be either fibrous or protoplasmic
- Ependymal cells: low columnar ciliated epithelial cells that line the cavities of the Central Nervous System
- Microglia: small elongated cells with many short irregular processes, derived from precursor cells in the bone marrow
Astrocytes
- Provide a supportive framework for neurons
- Create the "blood-brain barrier"
- Monitor and regulate the interstitial fluid surrounding neurons
- Secrete chemicals that stimulate embryological neuron formation
- Stimulate the formation of scar tissue secondary to CNS injury
Oligodendrocytes
- Produce the myelin sheath around axons in the CNS
- Myelinated axons transmit impulses faster than unmyelinated axons
Microglia
- Act as "brain macrophages"
- Phagocytize cellular wastes and pathogens
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Description
Learn about the different types of glial cells, their functions, and characteristics in the nervous system. Glial cells provide a suitable environment for neuronal activity.
