Neuroglia

Glial Cells

Non-neuronal cells of the central nervous system that support the metabolic and signaling functions of neurons.

Astrocyte

A type of glial cell primarily found in gray matter that helps maintain the ionic balance of extracellular fluids and processes neurotransmitters.

Oligodendrocyte

A glial cell found in white matter that forms myelin around axons, aiding in the propagation of neural signals.

Microglial Cell

A type of mononuclear phagocyte in the central nervous system that phagocytizes cellular debris and modulates local inflammatory responses; type of macrophage

Macrophage

effector cells of the immune system

Glial Stem Cells

Stem cells in the central nervous system capable of multiplying and differentiating into astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and neurons.

Blood-Brain Barrier

A specialized permeability barrier formed by tight junctions between capillary endothelial cells and astrocyte foot processes, regulating the passage of substances into neural tissue.

Active Transport

Mechanism by which certain molecules like glucose and amino acids are transported across the blood-brain barrier using energy.

Passive Diffusion

Process by which molecules can pass through the blood-brain barrier without the input of energy.

Porous Barrier

Areas in the central nervous system where the blood-brain barrier is less restrictive, allowing substances to diffuse between the brain and bloodstream, typically found in regions with hormone-secreting neurons.

Where are astrocytes found?

They are found in gray matter

Where are oligodendrocytes located?

Found within white matter

Functions of astrocytes

They are found in gray matter and are closely associated with cell bodies and synaptic connections; they also assist in the take-up and processing of neurotransmitters

Functions of oligodendrocytes

Found in white matter; responsible for the generation of insulin; also add antigens that influence growth of axons.

Schwann Cell

Cell that forms mylein sheath for the peripheral nervous system (the nerves that branch out to body parts)

Microglia states

comes in two states ramified and ambeoid, that react in the event of injury or inflammation